In a truly monumental moment for cricket, Marizanne Kapp etched her name into the history books on Wednesday. Her phenomenal, record-breaking performance single-handedly propelled South Africa into their very first ICC World Cup final – a historic achievement for both their men’s and women’s teams. The seasoned all-rounder delivered a spell that will be talked about for generations, as the Proteas absolutely dominated England, securing a massive 125-run victory in the Women’s World Cup semi-final held at Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium.
Kapp, aged 35, displayed her incredible prowess from the outset, tearing through the four-time champions with a fiery opening spell. She claimed two English wickets in her very first over, setting a dominant tone. By the end of her seven overs, she had registered sensational figures of 5 for 20, including the crucial dismissals of England’s star players Heather Knight, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Amy Jones. Chasing a daunting target of 319, England’s batting lineup crumbled under the immense pressure applied by Kapp and her determined teammates, ultimately being bowled out for just 194.
This incredible performance saw Kapp surpass Indian cricketing icon Jhulan Goswami’s long-standing record of 43 wickets, making her the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Women’s World Cup. Her 44th wicket, achieved in such a pivotal knockout game, was a moment truly fitting for South Africa’s sporting narrative. Furthermore, she joined an elite club, becoming only the third player ever to snatch a five-wicket haul in a World Cup knockout match, standing alongside Anya Shrubsole and Sophie Ecclestone.
Here’s a look at the top wicket-takers in Women’s Cricket World Cup history:
- 44 – Marizanne Kapp, South Africa (2009-25)
- 43 – Jhulan Goswami, India (2005-22)
- 39 – Lyn Fullston, Australia (1982-88)
- 39 – Megan Schutt, Australia (2013-25)
- 37 – Carole Hodges, England (1982-93)
- 37 – Sophie Ecclestone, England (2022-25)
Adding another feather to her cap, Kapp achieved a remarkable first in World Cup history: she became the only player to take two five-wicket hauls against the same opponent. Her previous demolition of England came in 2022, where she took 5 for 45 at Mount Maunganui.
Earlier in the match, captain Laura Wolvaardt set the stage with an explosive 169 runs off just 143 balls. Her magnificent century powered South Africa to an imposing total of 319 for 7. With solid support from Tazmin Brits (45) and Marizanne Kapp herself (42 with the bat), Wolvaardt’s innings provided the ideal foundation for the bowlers to take control.
England’s pursuit of the formidable target was derailed early on and never truly recovered from Kapp’s initial double strike. Although Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50) offered some resistance with half-centuries, their efforts were not enough to turn the tide.
As captain Wolvaardt raised her arms in jubilant triumph, Marizanne Kapp stood tall, having not only rewritten the record books but also proudly led South Africa to their historic first-ever ODI World Cup final. A truly unforgettable day for South African cricket!