South Africa pulled off a dramatic three-wicket win over Bangladesh in Visakhapatnam yesterday to keep their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign firmly on course.

Set a target of 233 after Bangladesh’s late surge lifted them to 232/6, the Proteas endured an early collapse before Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon rescued the innings with a crucial 85-run stand. Kapp’s composed 56 steadied nerves after South Africa slumped to 78/5, while Tryon’s powerful 62 turned the tide against the disciplined Bangladeshi attack.

When both fell in quick succession, the chase wobbled again, leaving the Proteas needing eight runs from the final over. All-rounder Nadine de Klerk kept her cool under pressure, striking a six over long-on to seal victory with three balls to spare.

Earlier, Bangladesh had built their total around Shorna Akter’s brisk 51 off 33 balls and Sharmin Akter’s patient half-century. Nonkululeko Mlaba was South Africa’s most effective bowler with 2/42, supported by tidy spells from Ayabonga Khaka and Masabata Klaas.

The result marked South Africa’s third consecutive win, lifting them to third place on the tournament table with six points from four matches and leaving Bangladesh with just one victory. For the Proteas, it was another display of grit and composure in tight finishes – a quality they will need in abundance as they chase a semi-final berth in the coming days.