The Proteas Women cruised to a six-wicket win against Ireland at the Wanderers on Friday to sweep the ODI series 3-0.

Chasing a modest 206, South Africa were once again anchored by captain Laura Wolvaardt, who fittingly brought up her century with the winning run.

She was well supported at the top by Tazmin Brits, with the opening pair racing to a 50-run stand inside seven overs as the Proteas Women made light work of the target.

Brits was the first to go for a brisk 26, edging Arlene Kelly behind, but Wolvaardt remained in complete control. She moved effortlessly past fifty – her 39th ODI half-century – and became the first player in the series to pass 200 runs.

Teenager Karabo Meso was promoted up the order and looked assured before being stumped off Aimee Maguire, while Suné Luus added impetus with a lively 25. Dané van Niekerk chipped in briefly before falling to Kelly, but Faye Tunnicliffe ensured there were no late stumbles as Wolvaardt guided the chase home.

Earlier, South Africa’s bowlers laid the platform by restricting Ireland to 205 all out in the 46th over after being asked to bowl first.

Nonkululeko Mlaba was outstanding, claiming 4-33, while Tumi Sekhukhune returned 2-27 despite nursing a knee knock.

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images