England’s captain Nat Sciver-Brunt celebrates with teammates after taking a wicket during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 ODI match between South Africa and England, at ACA Stadium, Barsapara, in Guwahati, on October 3, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI
Women’s World Cup 2025 – England sent out a strong warning to their rivals with a ruthless performance in their opening match against South Africa at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium on Friday. The defending champions dismantled South Africa for just 69 runs in 20.4 overs before chasing the target down in only 14.1 overs without losing a wicket, sealing a 10-wicket victory.
It was a perfect outing for England right from the toss, as skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt opted to bowl first on a helpful surface. Left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, making her mark early, struck in her very first over to dismiss South African captain Laura Wolvaardt with a sharp return catch. In her next over, Smith bowled the in-form Tazmin Brits, who had arrived on the back of three consecutive ODI centuries.
The collapse continued when pacer Lauren Bell knocked over Sunu Luus, followed by Smith removing the experienced Marizanne Kapp with a superb delivery. By the time South Africa slipped to 19/4, England were in complete control.
Smith, who only made her ODI debut four months ago, produced a dream spell of 3/7. She was backed up brilliantly by the rest of the attack as Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean grabbed two wickets apiece. The only resistance came from wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta, who battled hard for 22 off 36 balls, but her efforts were not enough to take South Africa past 70.
Also Read: Women’s ODI World Cup 2025: England Eyes Strong Start Against South Africa in Barsapara Clash
In reply, England’s openers made the chase look effortless. Amy Jones scored a fluent 40* off 50 balls, while Tammy Beaumont remained unbeaten on 21, as England romped home in style with 35 balls to spare.
With such a dominant start, England have firmly announced themselves as serious contenders for the title, while South Africa will need a quick turnaround to stay in the competition.
Brief Scores:
South Africa: 69 in 20.4 overs (Sinalo Jafta 22; Linsey Smith 3/7, Ecclestone 2/12, Dean 2/14, Sciver-Brunt 2/17)
England: 73/0 in 14.1 overs (Amy Jones 40*, Tammy Beaumont 21*)
Result: England won by 10 wickets
Toss: England
Player of the Match: Linsey Smith
Published – October 03, 2025 05:09 pm IST
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