Pakistan posted 126 for 9 after being asked to bat first, with captain Fatima Sana anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 55 off 38 deliveries to lift her side after early setbacks. South Africa struck regularly through the innings, with Marizanne Kapp making early breakthroughs, while Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka kept Pakistan’s scoring in check through disciplined spells. Pakistan’s lower order added valuable runs late on, but consistent wickets prevented any late acceleration beyond 126.
In reply, South Africa’s chase of 127 was anchored by a vital 76-run partnership between Annerie Dercksen and Nadine de Klerk, which steadied the innings after early pressure and shifted momentum in South Africa’s favour.
Dercksen stood out with a fluent 52 off 35 balls and was named Player of the Match, while de Klerk added a composed 37 off 28, keeping the chase on track despite wickets falling around her. Pakistan stayed in contention through Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal, who struck at key moments to drag the match into a tense finish.
South Africa eventually reached the target in 16.5 overs after late wickets, with Dercksen’s innings proving decisive in a closely fought World Cup encounter.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
