South Africa’s massive total of 319 for seven proved insurmountable for England, who were bowled out for 194 in a 125-run semi-final defeat. The win gives South Africa a historic first berth in the 50-over World Cup final.
The total was the second-highest in a knockout game, built on the back of Laura Wolvaardt’s 169. The captain was patient for her 115-ball century, but explosive at the end, adding 69 runs in 28 balls.
England had hopes at 202 for six, thanks to Sophie Ecclestone’s four wickets, but Wolvaardt’s late charge, supported by the lower order, took the game away.
England’s chase was a write-off from the start. Marizanne Kapp delivered a double-wicket maiden, as England’s top three all departed for ducks, leaving the score at one for three.
Kapp, who also became the all-time leading World Cup wicket-taker, finished with five for 20. She broke a 107-run stand for the fourth wicket to seal the dominant victory.