Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp’s record-breaking partnership powered South Africa to a commanding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first ODI at Gaddafi Stadium. The pair’s centuries helped the visitors chase down a challenging target of 256.
Brits and Kapp secure record stand
South Africa’s chase of 256 began with a slight stumble after losing captain Laura Wolvaardt (4) and Sune Luus (30). However, the match was put beyond Pakistan’s reach by a magnificent 216-run partnership between Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp, a record for the third wicket for South Africa against Pakistan.
Kapp, who was named Player of the Match, reached her fourth ODI century and finished with a superb 121 off 128 deliveries, hitting 13 fours and two sixes. Brits remained unbeaten on 101 from 121 balls for her fifth career hundred, which included nine boundaries. Their controlled and dominant performance ensured South Africa reached the target with 10 balls to spare.
Sidra Ameen’s historic innings for Pakistan
Earlier, Pakistan’s total of 255 for 4 was built on a historic innings from opener Sidra Ameen. She became the first Pakistani woman to score an ODI century against South Africa, a milestone achieved with her unbeaten 121 off 150 balls. This was her fifth career century, and in the process, she also became only the third Pakistani woman to cross the 2,000-run mark in ODIs.
Ameen’s anchor role was complemented by a record-breaking second-wicket partnership with Muneeba Ali, who scored a fluent 76. Their 147-run stand surpassed the previous national record of 143 runs.
Despite the historic batting performance, Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the South African batters, with Sadia Iqbal and Rameen Shamim each taking one wicket. Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming two wickets.
