Pakistan became the second team to be officially eliminated from the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 after suffering a 150-run hammering at the hands of South Africa in Colombo on Tuesday – their fourth defeat in as many matches.
Put into bat, South Africa recovered from an early setback to post 312 for nine — South Africa’s highest total in World Cup history — before rain interrupted play and the target was revised to 243 in 20 overs under the DLS method. Pakistan, however, failed to mount any resistance and limped to 83 for seven.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a sparkling knock (90) while Sune Luus (61) and Marizanne Kapp (68*) played vital supporting knocks, stitching crucial partnerships with the South Africa captain to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Nadine de Klerk then provided a late flourish with a whirlwind cameo, propelling the Proteas past the 300-run mark. South Africa’s innings featured 11 sixes – the most by any team in the ongoing tournament.
For Pakistan, Nashra Sandhu (3/45) and Sadia Iqbal (3/63) were the pick of the bowlers while Fatima Sana also chipped in with a wicket.
With Australia, England and South Africa already through to the semifinals, and Pakistan and Bangladesh out of contention, the race for the remaining last-four spot is now between New Zealand and co-hosts India and Sri Lanka.
Source: Agencies/dailystar.net
