In a commanding performance at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, South Africa’s women’s cricket team stormed to a 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Despite persistent rain turning the encounter into a reduced-overs contest, captain Laura Wolvaardt’s unbeaten half-century and Nonkululeko Mlaba’s precise spin attack powered the Proteas to a crucial win that brings them within touching distance of the semifinals. The match showcased South Africa’s composure under pressure and reinforced their growing reputation as a powerhouse in women’s cricket.
A Rain-Interrupted Contest
The 18th match of the tournament on October 17, 2025, began under cloudy skies, with Sri Lanka electing to bat after winning the toss. After just 12 overs, with the score at 46/2, heavy rain halted play for more than five hours, reducing the match to 20 overs per side. When play resumed, South Africa’s bowlers quickly seized control.
Vishmi Gunaratne top-scored for Sri Lanka with 34, while captain Chamari Athapaththu struggled to find rhythm before falling lbw to Masabata Klaas. Nonkululeko Mlaba was the standout performer, taking 3/30 as Sri Lanka posted 105/7. Klaas supported brilliantly with figures of 2/18, aided by sharp fielding from Wolvaardt and young wicketkeeper Karabo Meso, who claimed her first World Cup dismissal.
Wolvaardt and Brits Lead with Batting Brilliance
Chasing a DLS-adjusted target of 121, South Africa’s openers produced a flawless partnership. Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with an unbeaten 60 off 50 balls, guiding her team with precision and poise. Partner Tazmin Brits struck a fluent 55* off 40 balls, including a six that sealed the match with 31 balls remaining. Their unbroken stand of 125 showcased the Proteas’ confidence and control under lights, elevating them to second place on the points table behind Australia.
Wolvaardt’s innings combined restraint against early swing with elegant stroke play once conditions eased. Brits, regaining form after a difficult start to the tournament, punished every loose delivery. Together, they embodied the strategic clarity and self-belief that now define this Proteas unit.
Mlaba’s Magic with the Ball
Nonkululeko Mlaba once again proved why she is among the premier spinners in world cricket. Despite slippery conditions, her variation and control dismantled Sri Lanka’s middle order, moving her up to second place on the tournament’s wicket-takers list. Combined with Klaas’s early breakthroughs and disciplined spells from Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk, South Africa’s attack demonstrated a balance that few teams can match.
This victory marked South Africa’s fourth successful chase in the tournament, further strengthening their semifinal ambitions. After an early defeat to England, the Proteas have rebounded impressively, showing the kind of composure and tactical execution that championship teams rely on.
Momentum Toward the Semifinals
The comprehensive win in Colombo boosts South Africa’s confidence as they move into the final group stages. With one more win likely enough to secure a top-four finish, the Proteas are emerging as genuine title contenders. Their net run rate advantage adds to their strategic edge over teams such as India and New Zealand. Wolvaardt’s leadership, calm yet assertive, has been instrumental in navigating varying conditions throughout the tournament.
Women’s cricket in South Africa continues to flourish, driven by robust domestic structures and increased exposure on the international stage. Following their runner-up finish in the 2023 T20 World Cup, this campaign further signals a team ready to take the final step to global glory.
Global Momentum: Lessons from Sporting Giants
The Proteas’ rise evokes parallels with other dominant women’s teams in global sport, particularly those that transformed their disciplines through excellence and perseverance. Like the world’s top football teams that redefined their games through skill, discipline, and unity, South Africa’s cricketers are showing that success in women’s sport comes through depth, adaptability, and an unshakable belief in collective strength.
Much like legendary teams that inspired participation across continents, the Proteas’ success is igniting fresh enthusiasm for cricket in emerging markets. Their story resonates far beyond boundaries and nations, offering a model for how dedication and visibility can elevate women’s sport worldwide.
Cricket’s Expanding Global Reach
Cricket’s global influence continues to grow, with new audiences discovering the sport through dynamic T20 leagues and digital engagement. Leagues such as the Indian Premier League have attracted millions of new fans with fast-paced formats, star power, and world-class production. This growing international attention has inspired grassroots development in regions once outside the cricket mainstream.
Emerging markets are embracing cricket’s strategic and entertainment value, mirroring how other global sports expanded through broadcast innovation and cross-cultural appeal. As cricket eyes inclusion in the 2028 Olympics, the sport’s global momentum could accelerate even further—bringing fresh talent, fans, and investment from across the world.
The Road Ahead
As the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 enters its decisive phase, South Africa’s victory over Sri Lanka stands as a statement of intent. Wolvaardt’s poise and Mlaba’s artistry epitomize a team ready to contend with the world’s best. The Proteas’ journey is no longer one of potential—it’s a pursuit of greatness, uniting fans worldwide in anticipation of what could be a defining moment in women’s cricket history.