In a high-voltage ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 encounter at Indore, Tazmin Brits produced a batting masterclass that powered South Africa Women to a resounding six-wicket victory over New Zealand Women. Tazmin Brits‘ sublime 101 off 89 deliveries, studded with 15 boundaries and a six, anchored South Africa’s successful chase of 231 with 55 balls to spare. It was a knock that not only sealed the contest but also underlined South Africa’s growing authority in the tournament.
New Zealand’s Inconsistent Start Falters Late
Opting to bat first, New Zealand’s innings was a tale of promise followed by collapse. Veteran opener Suzie Bates departed for a duck in the first over, undone by an in-swinging delivery that clattered into her pads. Amelia Kerr attempted to rebuild, crafting a steady 23, but wickets at regular intervals disrupted the early rhythm. By the 15th over, the scoreboard read a precarious 44 for 2.
Then came Sophie Devine, leading from the front with a captain’s knock. Her composed 85 off 97 balls, laced with 10 fours, steadied the ship and gave the White Ferns some breathing room. She found support from Brooke Halliday, whose 45 provided much-needed resistance in the middle overs. Their 86-run partnership revived New Zealand’s hopes of a competitive total.
However, once Devine’s dismissal triggered the lower order collapse, the innings lost its shape. The last six wickets fell for just 44 runs, with South Africa’s bowlers maintaining relentless accuracy and variation. New Zealand were eventually bundled out for 231 in 47.5 overs. Extras, a significant factor, contributed 21 wides and 2 leg byes, underscoring the bowling indiscipline that would later haunt them.
Tazmin Brits Takes Charge
South Africa’s chase began confidently. Laura Wolvaardt, typically reliable, made a quick 14 before perishing early, but that brought Tazmin Brits to the forefront. From her very first boundary—a crisply timed drive through the covers—it was evident she was in sublime touch. Her balance at the crease, judgment of length, and fearless stroke play neutralized New Zealand’s bowling attack with remarkable ease.
Tazmin Brits built crucial partnerships throughout the innings. Her stand with Sune Luus proved decisive. The duo complemented each other beautifully—Luus, the anchor with deft placements, and Brits, the aggressor with commanding drives and lofted strokes down the ground. Their unbroken partnership steered South Africa from a cautious 82 for 2 to victory at 234 for 4 in 40.5 overs.
Tazmin Brits reached her century in style, whipping Lea Tahuhu over midwicket to bring up her third ODI ton, soaking in the applause as teammates rose to their feet. It was a defining knock equal parts composure and authority showcasing her ability to dictate tempo in high-pressure chases.
Inconsistent Bowling Hands Momentum to South Africa
The White Ferns struggled to find breakthroughs once the powerplay ended. Amelia Kerr was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 for 62 in her 10 overs, but lacked consistent support. Lea Tahuhu (1 for 27) and Jess Kerr (1 for 41) created early chances but were soon neutralized by South Africa’s counterattack.
Despite occasional bursts of discipline, New Zealand’s bowlers were wayward, conceding too many boundary opportunities and leaking extras at crucial junctures. Their failure to apply sustained pressure allowed South Africa to cruise home comfortably, exposing an overreliance on Devine and Kerr for breakthroughs.
Tazmin Brits’ Innings: A Masterclass in Control
What made Brits’ innings special was her calm under pressure. She assessed conditions perfectly, targeting the shorter boundary with precision while rotating the strike smartly. Her footwork against the spinners was exemplary stepping out to drive over mid-off, then cutting late with finesse. Every shot carried intent; every partnership added weight to South Africa’s dominance.
Even as wickets fell at the other end, Brits remained unflappable, guiding her side with the poise of a seasoned campaigner. When she finally raised her bat for a match-winning century, the message was clear: South Africa are no longer dark horses they are contenders.
In the end, Tazmin Brits’ monumental ton wasn’t just a match-winning effort it was a statement of South Africa’s rising stature in world cricket. Her 101 anchored a flawless chase that left New Zealand searching for answers. With Sune Luus’ unbeaten 83 providing vital support, South Africa sealed victory in emphatic fashion.
For New Zealand, the road ahead demands introspection batting collapses, lack of bowling discipline, and an inability to contain momentum cost them dearly. But for South Africa, the night belonged to Tazmin Brits whose brilliance turned a tricky chase into a resounding triumph.
Also Read: ICC Women’s ODI WC 2025: Tazmin Brits’ Powerful Century Guides South Africa To A Staggering Win