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.
