CENTURION: South Africa women defeated Pakistan women by 16 runs in a high-scoring One Day International of the ICC Women’s Championship at SuperSport Park on Wednesday, sealing the three-match series 2-1 with one game remaining.
After opting to bat, the hosts posted a formidable 360-run total, built on contributions from Tasmin Brits (77), Laura Wolvaardt (20), Sune Luus (57) and a blistering 90 off 68 balls by Annerie Dercksen. A late cameo from Nadine de Klerk further strengthened the total.
Chasing a record 361-run target, Pakistan lost an early wicket when Muneeba Ali was dismissed, but a 97-run partnership between Sadaf Shams (61) and Ayesha Zafar (75) revived the innings. Captain Fatima Sana added a quick 52 off 36 balls to keep Pakistan in contention.
Despite a spirited fightback, Pakistan were bowled out for 345 in the penultimate over, handing South Africa a hard-fought victory.
The teams will now travel to Durban for the final ODI scheduled on Sunday.