Islamabad: Marizanne Kapp and Tazmin Brits’ unbeaten 216-run partnership propelled South Africa to a resounding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first ODI in Lahore, setting a strong tone for their upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign. The duo’s phenomenal stand, the third-highest by a South African pair in women’s ODIs, overshadowed Sidra Amin’s unbeaten 121 for Pakistan.

Chasing a target of 256, South Africa found themselves in early trouble at 43/2. However, Kapp (121 not out) and Brits (101 not out) orchestrated a remarkable recovery, guiding their team to victory in the penultimate over. Captain Laura Wolvaardt lauded their performance as “absolutely amazing” and “phenomenal.” Kapp acknowledged the challenging conditions but praised Brits’ contribution, stating, “It was a tough innings, but Taz helped there, it was a brilliant innings from her as well.”

Brits’ century marked a unique achievement, making her the only player in women’s ODIs to score a ton against all four subcontinent teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Kapp emphasized their strategy, stating, “We knew if we could stick in, we would be able to catch up.”

Earlier, Pakistan, opting to bat first, posted 255 runs. Amin’s 121-run knock anchored the innings, supported by Muneeba Ali’s 76. Despite early wickets from Ayabonga Khaka (2/36), Pakistan managed a respectable total. South Africa’s economic bowling in the latter stages limited Pakistan’s scoring potential. Wolvaardt (4) and Suné Luus (30) fell early in the Proteas’ chase before Kapp and Brits’ match-winning stand secured the victory.

The second ODI is scheduled for September 19th in Lahore, with the final match on September 22nd at the same venue.