Wolvaardt’s 169 helps S.Africa crush four-time champion England in Women’s Cricket World Cup semi

By Canadian Press on October 29, 2025.

GUWAHATI, India (AP) — A special hundred from skipper Laura Wolvaardt helped South Africa crush four-time champion England by 125 runs on Wednesday to reach the final of the Women’s Cricket World Cup for the first time.

Wolvaardt hit 169 off 143 balls, the third highest individual score in the World Cup knockout stages, as South Africa posted its biggest total in tournament history.

The Proteas finished on 319-7 in 50 overs after losing the toss, with Wolvaardt compiling 20 fours and 4 sixes in her 10th ODI century.

It was the second highest individual score by a captain in a World Cup match, behind Belinda Clark’s 229 not out against Denmark in 1997.

South Africa had previously lost in the semifinals in 2000, 2017 and 2022.

England was bowled out for 194 in 42.3 overs, with medium pacer Marizanne Kapp picking up 5-20, as it was beaten by South Africa for the first time in the World Cup knockout stages.

Kapp also became the most successful bowler in tournament history with 44 wickets, overtaking India’s Jhulan Goswami (43).

Wolvaardt reversed South Africa’s disappointing performance against England in the league stage at the same venue, when it was bowled out for 69. She was named player of the match.

On Thursday, defending champion Australia takes on co-hosts India in the second semi-final in Navi Mumbai.

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AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

The Associated Press