Tazmin Brits and Nonkululeko Mlaba help South Africa thump New Zealand in the World Cup

South Africa’s women produced a stirring performance to defeat New Zealand by six wickets in the ICC Women’s World Cup. Tazmin Brits led from the front with a calm and determined century, scoring 101 to anchor the chase and blunt the New Zealand attack. Earlier, Nonkululeko Mlaba turned in a match-defining performance with the ball, picking up four wickets for 40 runs. Her work in the middle overs set off a collapse, just when the white ferns appeared set to dominate the contest. Mlaba broke an 86-run partnership between Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday to pave the path for a South African victory at Indore.

Brits' knock included authoritative strokes on both sides of the wicket, holding the innings together in the company of Sune Luus. The latter proved the perfect foil with a crucial 83, rotating the strike expertly and accelerating as the target neared. The partnership between Brits and Luus effectively took the game away from New Zealand, giving South Africa a steady platform from which to secure a comfortable victory.

Amelia Kerr was the pick of the New Zealand bowling attack, claiming two wickets for 62 runs. Kerr’s variations posed the most significant threat, and a couple of quick wickets gave New Zealand some cheer at the end. However, the rest of the bowling unit struggled to contain South Africa’s measured response, with few chances or pressure moments after the big second-wicket stand.

Sophie Devine stood tall with a stylish 85, holding the top order together through the early exchanges. Devine’s knock was composed, aggressive, and vital in steering her side to a competitive total. Brooke Halliday contributed a gritty 45, but when Mlaba sent her back, caught and bowled, New Zealand withered from 187-3 to 231 all out in the space of nine overs.

Mlaba's left-arm spin was decisive, breaking the back of the New Zealand lineup and applying constant pressure through the middle overs. The rest of South Africa’s bowling attack, including Ayabonga Khaka and Marizanne Kapp, provided excellent support with tight spells that kept the scoring rate in check.

With two wins out of two, India top the table with four points. Australia has three points after their game against Sri Lanka was washed out. This was an essential win for South Africa after a disastrous opening game in which they were bowled out for 69. Bangladesh take on England on Tuesday at Guwahati.

Nonkululeko Mlaba of South Africa celebrates with Laura Wolvaardt (Photo by Prakash Singh/Getty Images)