Can Mlaba's Four-Wicket Haul Lead South Africa to Victory over New Zealand?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling Women’s World Cup clash, Nonkululeko Mlaba's four-wicket haul helped South Africa restrict New Zealand to 231 runs. Despite a strong 85 from Sophie Devine, the Proteas showcased their bowling prowess at Holkar Stadium. Will South Africa capitalize on this performance?
Key Takeaways
- Nonkululeko Mlaba claimed 4 wickets, exhibiting exceptional bowling skills.
- Sophie Devine scored a commendable 85 runs, proving her resilience.
- New Zealand struggled after a strong start, succumbing to pressure.
- South Africa's bowling attack managed to restrict runs effectively.
- The match showcased the competitive spirit in women's cricket.
Indore, Oct 6 (NationPress) Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba delivered an outstanding performance with a four-wicket haul, leading South Africa to bowl out New Zealand for 231 runs, despite a resilient 85 from Sophie Devine, during their Women’s World Cup encounter at the Holkar Stadium on Monday.
Choosing to bat first, the Kiwis faced a disastrous beginning as they lost veteran opener Suzie Bates for a duck on the very first ball of her 350th international match. She was caught in front of the wickets by Proteas pacer Marizanne Kapp, putting significant pressure on the White Ferns. This marked Bates' second consecutive duck in the tournament, following a similar fate against Australia at the same venue.
However, Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr managed to stabilize their innings with a crucial 44-run partnership for the second wicket. After the early loss, the pair adopted a cautious strategy, and by the end of the powerplay, their side was at 38/1.
The partnership ended in the 13th over when Nadine de Klerk dismissed Amelia Kerr for 23. New Zealand's captain, Sophie Devine, joined Plimmer, and they formed another important alliance, although South Africa continued to restrict their scoring opportunities.
Devine and Plimmer added a significant 57-run partnership for the third wicket, with Devine contributing the bulk of the runs. Chloe Tryon claimed the third wicket for the Proteas with Plimmer caught at long-on by Nadine de Klerk, leaving New Zealand at 101/3 after 25.4 overs.
When Brooke Halliday came to the crease, the scoring rate picked up for New Zealand, with Devine providing support. Halliday played aggressively, hitting boundaries regularly.
Devine reached her 17th ODI half-century and held her ground as the Kiwis crossed the 150-run mark. Nonkululeko Mlaba ended the 86-run partnership by getting rid of Halliday in the 39th over, who made a brisk 45 off 37 balls, including six fours.
New Zealand's innings deteriorated after that, losing Maddy Green (4) and Isabella Gaze (10) quickly before Mlaba bowled out Devine for 85 in the 45th over, concluding New Zealand's innings. Devine’s effort included nine fours and was especially significant as it marked her 300th international match.
Mlaba finished with impressive figures of 4-40 in her 10 overs, helping to dismiss New Zealand for 231/10 in 47.5 overs.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 231/10 in 47.5 overs (Sophie Devine 85, Brooke Halliday 45; Nonkululeko Mlaba 4-40) against South Africa.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the prowess exhibited by South Africa in this match. Nonkululeko Mlaba's performance not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the team's potential in the Women’s World Cup. The resilience shown by Sophie Devine, despite the loss, deserves acknowledgment. This match serves as a reminder of the fierce competition present in women’s cricket today.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the standout player in the match?
Nonkululeko Mlaba was the standout player, taking four wickets and helping bowl out New Zealand for 231 runs.
How many runs did Sophie Devine score?
Sophie Devine scored 85 runs in the match.
What was the result of the match?
South Africa bowled out New Zealand for 231 runs during the Women’s World Cup clash.
Where was the match held?
The match took place at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.
What was Suzie Bates's performance?
Suzie Bates was dismissed for a duck on the first ball of her 350th international match.
