South Africa Women produced a clinical run chase to defeat India Women by six wickets in a crucial Group A clash of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
After being invited to bat, India Women posted a competitive 158/7 in 20 overs. The innings featured several useful contributions throughout the batting order, with Shafali Verma scoring a quick 31 from 15 deliveries. Deepti Sharma added an important 29 runs, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed 24 runs to keep the scoreboard moving.
South Africa’s bowling attack maintained control during the middle overs. Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail claimed two wickets each, helping restrict India from reaching an even bigger total.
Chasing 159 for victory, South Africa Women lost a couple of wickets early but quickly regained momentum through a match-winning partnership. Experienced all-rounder Marizanne Kapp played a sensational unbeaten innings of 81 runs from 45 balls, striking seven boundaries and four sixes.
Tazmin Brits provided excellent support with 40 runs, while captain Laura Wolvaardt added 20 at the top of the order. Their contributions ensured South Africa remained ahead of the required run rate throughout the chase.
South Africa eventually reached 161/4 in 19.1 overs, securing an important victory with five balls to spare.
The win strengthens South Africa Women’s position in Group A and highlights their credentials as strong contenders for the knockout stages.
Match Summary
India Women
158/7 (20 Overs)
Batter
Runs
Shafali Verma
31 (15)
Deepti Sharma
29 (21)
Harmanpreet Kaur
24 (22)
Smriti Mandhana
17 (12)
South Africa Women
161/4 (19.1 Overs)
Batter
Runs
Marizanne Kapp
81* (45)
Tazmin Brits
40 (36)
Laura Wolvaardt
20 (21)
Result
South Africa Women won by 6 wickets
Player of the Match
Marizanne Kapp
81* runs from 45 balls
7 fours
4 sixes
2 wickets with the ball
Outstanding all-round performance
Match Details
Series: ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Match: Group A, Match 18 Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026 Venue: England
Key Highlights
Marizanne Kapp smashed an unbeaten 81 from 45 balls. South Africa successfully chased 159 with five balls remaining. Tazmin Brits scored a valuable 40 runs. Shafali Verma top-scored for India with 31 runs. Kapp and Shabnim Ismail picked up two wickets each. South Africa Women secured a vital Group A victory.
