Proteas Women battered in World Cup opener

The Proteas Women opened their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 with an embarassing 10-wicket defeat at the hands of England.

England won the toss and chose to bowl first.

The Proteas batters were poor and were dismissed for just 69 in under 21 overs.

South Africa were left reeling early on after Smith spun a web around their top order. Smith struck first by dismissing skipper Laura Wolvaardt, then bowled out Tazmin Brits with a sharp delivery. Lauren Bell added to the damage, dismissing Sune Luus as South Africa slumped to 38-5 in the Powerplay.

At that point, the English kept on taking wickets at regular intervals with Sinalo Jafta the only South African to reach double figures, scoring 22.

Amy Jones (40*) led the way while Tammy Beaumont (17*) provided support as the England openers ensured a trouble-free finish to a dominant display.

The pair walked out knowing the target was well within reach after their team produced a relentless bowling display.

South Africa’s defeat is the third-lowest ODI total and the second-lowest ever in a World Cup match.

🚨 MATCH RESULT 🚨

An unfortunate outcome in our opening game of the #CWC25.#TheProteas Women will regroup and look to bounce back strongly, with all focus now on the next fixture. 💪🏏#Unbreakable #CWC25 pic.twitter.com/aSx3cMkaXs

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) October 3, 2025

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari