South Africa Women began the ODI series on a confident note, registering a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Ireland Women in the first ODI at Buffalo Park. After opting to bat first, Ireland put up a fighting total, but a disciplined bowling effort followed by a composed chase, led by Sune Luus, ensured a comfortable win for the hosts.
Ireland struggle to build momentum despite steady contributions
Ireland Women’s innings of 209 for 7 in 47 overs was built on several starts but lacked a defining partnership. Openers Sarah Forbes and Gaby Lewis looked to settle in, with Forbes anchoring the innings through a patient 42 off 71 deliveries. Amy Hunter added stability in the middle order with a fluent 32, while Orla Prendergast and Laura Delany provided brief bursts of momentum. Rebecca Stokell’s 39 off 48 balls towards the end helped Ireland push past the 200-run mark, but regular wickets prevented them from accelerating in the final phase.
South African bowlers apply consistent pressure
The South African bowling unit kept things tight throughout, ensuring Ireland never fully broke free. Nonkululeko Mlaba was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 43 with her accurate left-arm spin. Tumi Sekhukhune chipped in with two crucial wickets, while Sune Luus and Miane Smit contributed with one wicket apiece. Although Ayanda Hlubi and Eliz Mari Marx went wicketless, they played their part by controlling the run flow during key spells.
Sune Luus and Smit seal the game with an unbroken stand
Chasing 210, South Africa Women made a brisk start, with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits laying a solid foundation at the top. Wolvaardt struck six boundaries in her quick 31 off 24 balls, while Brits complemented her with a steady 27. Lara Goodall added another useful contribution, ensuring the hosts stayed well ahead of the required rate.
The chase was expertly guided to completion by Luus and Smit, who combined calmness with controlled aggression. Luus anchored the innings with a composed 66 off 72 balls, while Smit played a mature knock of 56 from 70 deliveries. Their partnership took the game away from Ireland, as South Africa reached 211 for 3 in just 36.5 overs.
Ireland’s bowling attack found it difficult to contain the South African batters once the set players settled in. Cara Murray was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, while Prendergast claimed one. Despite some economical spells, the lack of sustained pressure allowed South Africa to cruise to the target. Luus capped off a memorable outing with both bat and ball, earning the Player of the Match award.
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
