Match recap
On Saturday at Dubai International Stadium, South Africa lifted the points table after dispatching Bangladesh by seven wickets. The Proteas rode a balanced performance – a disciplined spell from the pace attack bundled Bangladesh for 115, and a composed chase saw the target reached with 56 balls to spare.
Opening bowler Marizanne Kapp broke the rhythm early, taking 2 for 18 in her four overs. She was ably supported by Shabnim Ismail, who claimed the key wicket of Bangladesh’s captain Nigar Sultana Joty for a duck. The early breakthroughs left Bangladesh re‑eling at 38/3, and they never recovered.
In reply, Tazmin Brits anchored the innings with a crisp 42 off 31 balls, mixing cuts and drives to keep the run‑rate steady. Her partnership with Laura Wolvaardt, who contributed 27, steered the chase past the 120‑run mark with seven wickets still intact.
- Bangladesh 115/9 (20 overs)
- South Africa 119/3 (16.2 overs)
- Top scorer: Tazmin Brits – 42 (31)
- Best bowler: Marizanne Kapp – 2/18
- Player of the match: Tazmin Brits
Captain Laura Wolvaardt praised the bowlers for “keeping the pressure on” and said the batting side “could have been a bit more aggressive,” but she was pleased with the overall team effort and the regained first‑place spot.
Bangladesh’s skipper Nigar Sultana Joty admitted that “the batting didn’t click,” yet she highlighted the youth of her squad and the learning curve ahead, thanking the crowd for its “energetic support.”
Looking ahead
The tournament schedule now shifts to Sunday, featuring two high‑profile matches. England will open against Scotland, a game that could see the hosts solidify their group standing. Later, the classic rivalry of India versus Australia is set to light up the day, with both sides eyeing a semi‑final berth.
For South Africa, the next challenge will be against a fellow Group A opponent, where maintaining momentum will be key. Meanwhile, Bangladesh hopes to bounce back, applying the lessons from Dubai to tighten their batting line‑up and compete for a spot in the knockout stage.
George Thomas
September 26, 2025 AT 14:28Well played, South Africa.
Michelle Linscomb
October 2, 2025 AT 09:22Bangladesh got absolutely smashed – the Proteas showed no mercy and dominated from the word go. That kind of firepower is exactly what you need to keep that top spot!
John McDonald
October 8, 2025 AT 04:15Great to see SA’s bowlers lock down the death overs with an economy under 5, while the batting side kept a healthy strike‑rate throughout the chase. Tazmin Brits’ 42 at a 135 SR really set the platform, and the partnership with Wolvaardt was textbook execution of a chase under pressure.
Jordyn Wade
October 13, 2025 AT 23:08The match in Dubai really highlighted the depth of South Africa’s squad and the way they handled the pressure was impressive. Marizanne Kapp’s early breakthroughs gave the team momentum that they never lost. The pace attack combined precision with aggression, making it hard for Bangladesh to settle. Bangladesh’s top order folded quickly which forced them into a chase that was always going to be steep. The South African batters approached the target methodically, not taking unnecessary risks. Tazmin Brits anchored the innings with a calm yet aggressive approach, showing great composure. Laura Wolvaardt’s contribution, though modest, provided stability at the other end. The partnership between Brits and Wolvaardt was a textbook example of rotating the strike while still hunting boundaries. Their ability to find gaps and keep the scoreboard ticking ensured the required run‑rate never became a concern. By the time the overs dwindled, the required runs were well within reach. The final overs were a formality, with South Africa sealing the win comfortably. This performance not only retook the lead but also sent a strong message to other contenders. The team’s discipline in both bowling and batting phases was evident throughout. It will be interesting to see if they can maintain this momentum against the next Group A opponent. Overall, this match was a showcase of why South Africa remains a formidable force in the T20 World Cup.