Pakistan’s Women’s World Cup Campaign Ends with Heavy Defeat to South Africa
Pakistan’s dream of reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 came to an abrupt end in Colombo after a crushing 150-run loss to South Africa in a rain-hit encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Tuesday. Despite showing moments of resistance, the Green Shirts were outplayed in all departments as their chase fell short of the revised target, marking the end of their campaign.
The match, reduced to 40 overs per side due to persistent rain, saw South Africa pile up an imposing total before further weather interruptions forced the target to be adjusted to 234 runs in 20 overs under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method. Pakistan’s batters never found their rhythm against a disciplined South African attack, managing only 83 for 7 when play concluded.
Sidra Nawaz top-scored for Pakistan with an unbeaten 22 off 33 balls, while Natalia Pervaiz contributed 20 off 24 deliveries. The pair shared a 31-run stand for the fifth wicket, briefly steadying the innings before South Africa regained control through tight bowling and sharp fielding.
Marizanne Kapp led the Proteas’ charge with a stellar bowling performance, claiming three wickets for just 20 runs in five overs. She was well-supported by Nondumiso Shangase, who struck twice, and Ayabonga Khaka, who chipped in with a crucial wicket. South Africa’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout, exploiting the sluggish outfield and variable bounce following rain delays.
The commanding win propelled South Africa to the top of the tournament standings, earning 10 points from six matches with a healthy net run rate of 0.276. Pakistan, on the other hand, were left reflecting on another disappointing campaign that showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency in key moments.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana had elected to field after winning the toss, a decision that initially paid off. The young fast bowler removed opener Tazmin Brits for a four-ball duck in just the second over, giving Pakistan a perfect start with South Africa struggling at 5 for 1.
However, any early advantage evaporated after the lengthy rain break. Once play resumed, South Africa’s top order capitalized on the improved batting conditions. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus anchored the innings with a commanding 118-run partnership that changed the momentum of the match.
Luus was eventually dismissed for a fluent 61 off 59 balls, an innings decorated with 10 boundaries, including two sixes. Wolvaardt, meanwhile, continued to dominate from one end, driving Pakistan’s bowlers to all parts of the ground. Her 90 off 82 deliveries, featuring 10 fours and two sixes, highlighted her form and composure under pressure.
