Marizanne Kapp’s remarkable performance propelled South Africa’s women’s cricket team to a groundbreaking ODI triumph over Australia in Sydney on Wednesday, injecting new life into the 50-over series. Kapp’s impressive 75-run innings off 87 deliveries stole the spotlight, supported by Anneke Bosch’s quickfire 44 runs from 46 balls and Chloe Tryon’s aggressive 37 runs from 36 balls, collectively guiding the Proteas to a competitive total of 229/6.
Despite a solid start from Australia, with early dismissals including Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, South Africa steadily built momentum during the powerplay, reaching 32 for 1 by the end of the 10th over. Kapp’s resilient partnership contributions with de Klerk and Tryon allowed her to reach a well-deserved half-century from 62 balls.
Facing a formidable bowling attack led by Megan Schutt and Ashleigh Gardner, Australia’s batting faltered under pressure, collapsing to 71/8 by the 14th over in a rare display of vulnerability. Kapp’s effective bowling further intensified the hosts’ struggle, claiming crucial wickets including Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, and Phoebe Litchfield, restricting Australia’s chase to a mere 149 runs by the 30th over.
Ellyse Perry’s brief stint at the crease yielded only 2 runs before succumbing to debutant Ayanda Hlubi, as South Africa’s bowling unit dominated the middle order. Despite a resilient partnership between Gardner and Kim Garth, the Proteas’ relentless attack ultimately sealed a historic victory, marking Australia’s first home ODI defeat in over a decade.
With Kapp leading the charge with a three-wicket haul, supported by Hlubi, Marx, and de Klerk’s contributions, South Africa’s women’s team demonstrated resilience and determination, clinching a memorable win against formidable opponents.
