SA Dominates NZ: Brits, Luus Shine in Women’s World Cup Thriller.

  • October 6, 2025

An exceptional ton from Tazmin Brits alongside a steady showing from Sune Luus steered South Africa to a convincing six-wicket triumph over New Zealand in the seventh game of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 at Indore’s Holkar Cricket Ground. Successfully pursuing a target of 232, South Africa achieved the required score in 40.5 overs, largely due to an extraordinary 159-run partnership between Brits and Luus.

Tazmin Brits and Sune Luus lead South Africa’s chase

Following the early exit of captain Laura Wolvaardt for 14, South Africa’s pursuit was admirably stabilized by Tazmin Brits, who delivered one of her most remarkable World Cup performances. Her innings of 101, scored off 89 deliveries, included 15 boundaries and a six, demonstrating a masterclass in calculated aggression and precise timing. She managed her innings expertly – initially providing stability after the early loss of a wicket, followed by a focused assault on the spin bowlers.

On the opposite end, Sune Luus held the innings together with a confident unbeaten 81 from 114 balls, which included nine boundaries and a six. Luus fulfilled the ideal supporting role, consistently rotating the strike and enabling Brits to dominate proceedings. Their combined effort effectively removed New Zealand from contention, with South Africa advancing to 185/1 prior to their successive dismissals.

Even though Marizanne Kapp (14) and Anneke Bosch (0) were dismissed cheaply, Sinalo Jafta (6 not out) efficiently concluded the chase, guiding the Proteas to victory with 55 balls remaining.

New Zealand struggle despite Sophie Devine’s heroics

Earlier, New Zealand Women, having chosen to bat first, recorded a total of 231 in 47.5 overs, mainly due to Sophie Devine’s captain’s innings of 85 (98). Devine presented her characteristic attacking game, striking nine boundaries and maintaining the scoreboard’s momentum despite frequent wicket losses at the other end.

Following the early departure of Suzie Bates (0), New Zealand achieved some stability through Georgia Plimmer (31) and Amelia Kerr (23), though neither could capitalize on their starts. Devine received support from Brooke Halliday (45 off 37), who contributed a quick-fire innings marked by well-timed boundaries, helping New Zealand surpass the 200-run threshold.

However, the lower order collapsed as South Africa’s bowling attack tightened its control. From a position of 195/4, the White Ferns forfeited their final six wickets for just 36 runs.

For the Proteas Women, left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba stood out, achieving excellent figures of 4 for 40 across 10 overs, effectively utilizing the dry conditions of the Indore pitch. Her subtle changes in pace and flight created problems for the New Zealand middle order throughout the innings.

Ayabonga Khaka’s accuracy and Marizanne Kapp’s command complemented Mlaba’s performance, with Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk also making significant breakthroughs.

Player of the Match

Brits was justifiably awarded Player of the Match for her match-winning century and significant partnership with Luus. Her performance not only supported South Africa’s chase but also highlighted her growth as one of the most dependable top-order batters in women’s cricket.

Also WATCH: Marizanne Kapp’s in-seaming delivery removes Suzie Bates for a golden duck during NZ-W vs SA-W clash

Here’s how fans reacted

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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