![Laura Wolvaardt once again shone with a century for South Africa [Image: Getty]](https://www.womenscricinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/367923.6.webp "Laura Wolvaardt once again shone with a century [Image: Getty]")
In a riveting and much-anticipated clash, South Africa emerged triumphant in the 2nd ODI against Sri Lanka, clinching victory by 7 wickets and leading the three-match ODI series 1-0. The match showcased outstanding performances, notably from Laura Wolvaardt, whose unbeaten century guided her team to a resounding win.
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, Sri Lanka managed to post a respectable total of 229 runs before being bowled out in 49.5 overs.
Chamari Athapaththu, the skipper, led from the front with a solid knock of 51 runs, supported by contributions from Hansima Karunaratne (33) and Kavisha Dilhari (42) that further bolstered their innings, but they faltered towards the end, losing wickets at crucial junctures that proved to be too costly.
🔄 Change Of Innings
Ayabonga Khaka and Nadine de Klerk led the bowling attack for the Proteas Women which restricted Sri Lanka to 229 all out
🇿🇦 Proteas Women need 230 runs to win #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAWvSRIW pic.twitter.com/qwBYVQGASV
— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) April 13, 2024
However, it was a collective effort from the South African bowling attack that kept the Sri Lankan batters in check. Nadine de Klerk and Nonkululeko Mlaba were the pick of the bowlers, each claiming three wickets, while Ayabonga Khaka provided crucial breakthroughs with two wickets.
In pursuit of 230 runs for victory, South Africa got off to a shaky start, losing two early wickets. However, a magnificent partnership between Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp turned the tide in favour of the hosts.
Laura Wolvaardt’s innings was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing both resilience and class as she remained unbeaten on a magnificent 110 runs. From the outset, Wolvaardt exuded confidence and composure, weathering the storm of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack with finesse. Her innings was a masterclass in batting, characterized by exquisite strokeplay and unwavering determination.
What made Wolvaardt’s knock even more remarkable was her ability to adapt to the match situation. Despite losing early wickets, she steadied the ship for South Africa, constructing her innings meticulously while also capitalizing on scoring opportunities.
WOLFIE WITH ANOTHER MASTERCLASS 🐺👌#WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAWvSRIW pic.twitter.com/0SztDEm7Sq
— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) April 13, 2024
Her patience at the crease, coupled with her astute shot selection, ensured that South Africa maintained control of the chase throughout. Wolvaardt’s brilliance was not a solitary effort. She found a worthy ally in Marizanne Kapp, whose aggressive approach complemented Wolvaardt’s steady presence at the other end.
Kapp’s innings was marked by calculated aggression, as she dispatched the Sri Lankan bowlers to all parts of the ground with ease. Her brisk 80 runs off just 84 balls injected momentum into South Africa’s innings, keeping the required run rate within reach.
Together, Wolvaardt and Kapp forged a formidable partnership of 147 runs for the fourth wicket, a testament to their synergy and understanding of each other’s game. Their partnership propelled South Africa towards a comfortable victory, demoralizing the Sri Lankan bowling attack with each passing run.
Oshadi Ranasinghe, Inoka Ranaweera and Achini Kulasuriya picked up a wicket each for Sri Lanka, but it wasn’t enough to stop the relentless South African batting lineup.
South Africa wins by 7 wickets 🥳🏏
What an incredible performance from the Proteas Women, who claimed today’s victory against Sri Lanka with 14 balls remaining 👌😮💨#AlwaysRising #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/j46vbzoQ42
— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) April 13, 2024
South Africa’s comprehensive victory not only secured them a 1-0 lead in the 3-match series but also provided them with crucial points in the ICC Women’s Championship. Their dominant display with both bat and ball showcased the depth and talent within their squad.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will look to bounce back strongly in the remaining matches of the series.
Laura Wolvaardt’s match-winning century stood out as the highlight of the game. Her patient yet impactful innings guided South Africa to a convincing victory, earning her the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
The action now shifts to the 3rd ODI as both teams gear up for another exciting clash in this thrilling series.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI Brief Score
Sri Lanka- 229 all out in 49.5 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 51, Nadine de Klerk 3-23, Ayabonga Khaka 3-28) lost to South Africa- 233/3 in 47.4 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 110*, Marizanne Kapp 80*) by seven wickets.
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