PROTEAS POWER PAST IRELAND IN RECORD ODI SERIES WIN

The Proteas Women have slammed their way into a commanding 2–0 lead in their three-match ODI series against Ireland, producing a stunning display of power hitting and depth across both batting and bowling to clinch the series with a game to spare.

In the second ODI at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, South Africa posted a record-breaking 375/6, the highest total in the nation’s women’s ODI history, before bowling out Ireland for 301 to secure a 74-run victory.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt was at the heart of the Proteas’ batting onslaught, striking a brilliant 124 off 111 balls as she led from the front and delighted the crowd with crisp drives and smart strokeplay.

She was well supported by Suné Luus, who notched a career-best 114, while veteran all-rounder Dané van Niekerk provided fireworks of her own with a rapid 88 off 47 balls.

Ireland didn’t go quietly. Led by Orla Prendergast’s 97, the visitors smashed their highest ODI total ever, getting past the 300 mark for the fifth time in history, but ultimately couldn’t keep up with the imposing target.

Debutant Leah Jones impressed with the ball, picking up 3/48, while Miané Smit and Nondumiso Shangase also took key wickets.

The series began with a dominant seven-wicket win for the Proteas in the opener at Buffalo Park, where the partnership between Luus and Smit guided South Africa to a comfortable chase.

The dead-rubber final ODI is set for Johannesburg later this week.

Image credit: The Citizen