South Africa, made a strong statement in their Women's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign opener by defeating Hayley Matthews' West Indies by 10 wickets on October 4.
South Africa thrash West Indies in T20 World Cup Opener
Opting to field first after winning the toss, South Africa's decision proved to be spot-on. Nonkululeko Mlaba emerged as the star of the show, claiming four wickets for 29 runs in her four-over spell. Her impressive bowling performance contributed significantly to West Indies' below-par total of 118 for six.
West Indies, batting first, struggled to build momentum throughout their innings. They lost their captain, Hayley Matthews, and Qiana Joseph early in the powerplay, leaving them at a precarious 31 for two. Stafanie Taylor, playing in her ninth T20 World Cup, provided a steady anchor amidst the constant fall of wickets at the other end.
Taylor and James Resist South African pressure
Stafanie Taylor played a crucial role for West Indies, remaining unbeaten on 44 off 41 balls, including two fours and a six. Zaida James also contributed with a quickfire 15 off 13 balls, providing some momentum to the innings. South Africa's Marizanne Kapp showcased her skills with the new ball, dismissing both Hayley Matthews and Deandra Dottin. Dottin's return marked her first international appearance in over two years.
Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits didn't let South Africa toil hard
South Africa's run chase was a comfortable one, as they achieved the target with 13 balls to spare. Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits formed an unbroken opening partnership of 119 runs from 17.5 overs. Wolvaardt, a consistent performer, contributed 59 runs off 55 balls, including seven fours. Brits also played a crucial role, scoring 57 runs off 52 deliveries with six fours. West Indies suffered a setback during the match when left-arm spinner Zaida James was struck on the jaw by the ball. The injury occurred when Wolvaardt hit the ball back to James, and it deflected off her hands onto her face.
West Indies utilized eight bowlers in their attempt to contain South Africa's run chase, but none were able to make a significant impact. Chinelle Henry struggled, conceding 20 runs in two overs. While Hayley Matthews maintained a frugal economy rate of 5.50, she was unable to break through the South African partnership. South Africa's next match in the Women's T20 World Cup is against Heather Knight's England on October 7.
