COLOMBO – In a crucial pre-tournament encounter for the ICC Women`s World Cup 2025/26, the South Africa Women`s team delivered a compelling statement of intent, overcoming an early batting collapse to secure a four-wicket victory over Pakistan. The warm-up match, held in Colombo, served as an invaluable testing ground for both squads, though it was the Proteas who ultimately demonstrated superior resilience and strategic depth, proving that even a practice game can be a stage for drama.
Pakistan Sets a Moderate Target, Buoyed by Captain Sana`s Grit
Batting first, Pakistan found themselves in early discomfort but managed to post a respectable total of 229 before being bowled out in 45.6 overs. The innings was notably rescued by captain Fatima Sana, whose defiant 64 from the number seven position provided much-needed stability and impetus. Her leadership with the bat pulled Pakistan from a precarious situation, allowing them to put a competitive score on the board that, for a moment, seemed defendable.
South Africa`s bowlers, however, ensured that Pakistan never truly ran away with the game. Masabata Klaas, with impressive figures of 2 for 26, and Ayabonga Khaka, also claiming 2 for 40, were instrumental in applying consistent pressure and picking up wickets at crucial junctures. Their disciplined efforts kept the scoring rate in check and prevented Pakistan from building any significant long-term partnerships beyond Sana`s valiant stand.
South Africa`s Rocky Start and the Partnership That Changed Everything
The chase of 230 began with an unexpected jolt for South Africa. The top order faltered dramatically, losing three key wickets for a mere 27 runs within the opening six overs. This early stumble could have easily derailed their pursuit, raising questions about nerves and preparation. Spectators might have been forgiven for thinking this warm-up was about to warm-up into a one-sided affair, but the Proteas had other ideas.
However, what followed was a masterclass in composure and strategic partnership building. Anneke Bosch and Sune Luus stepped up, forging a magnificent 118-run stand for the fourth wicket. Bosch, contributing a fluent 58, and Luus, with a steady 54, systematically dismantled Pakistan`s bowling attack. Their partnership was a clinic in rebuilding, rotating the strike, and punishing loose deliveries. In a warm-up fixture, reaching a personal milestone often means making way for others, and true to form, both Bosch and Luus “retired out” after securing their half-centuries—a pragmatic move designed to give other squad members valuable time in the middle, reminding us that sometimes, victory isn`t the only goal in practice.
Clinical Finish and Looking Ahead
Despite the strategic retirements and a minor wobble in the middle order, South Africa`s chase remained firmly on track. Chloe Tryon, known for her aggressive stroke play, ensured there would be no late drama, finishing with an unbeaten 45 runs off just 39 balls. Her powerful hitting guided the Proteas confidently across the finish line in 40.1 overs, securing a four-wicket triumph.
For Pakistan, bowler Diana Baig was a standout performer, capturing 2 for 32, but her efforts were ultimately insufficient to stem the tide of South Africa`s determined batting. While the result is ultimately secondary in a warm-up, the manner of victory for South Africa speaks volumes. Their ability to recover from adversity, coupled with strong individual performances and tactical flexibility, bodes well for their campaign in the upcoming ICC Women`s World Cup. This win isn`t just a tick in the box; it`s a confident stride towards tournament readiness, demonstrating that even under pressure, this South African side knows how to find its rhythm and deliver when it matters most.
