DUBAI, OCT 12 : South Africa advanced closer to the semifinals of the Women’s T20 World Cup, following a commanding seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh.

The Proteas’ clinical performance, both with the ball and the bat, ensured they remained in the race for the Group B semi-final spots, alongside England and West Indies.

After Bangladesh set a modest target of 107, South Africa wrapped up the chase in 17.2 overs, largely thanks to opener Tazmin Brits’ 42 off 41 balls. South Africa’s top-order batsmen ensured a smooth chase, while the team’s bowlers, led by Marizanne Kapp and Nonkululeko Mlaba, set the tone early on.

Winning the toss, Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana opted to bat first. However, a tight South African bowling attack stifled their progress, leaving them at 21/1 by the end of the powerplay. Kapp’s outstanding figures of 1/10 and Mlaba’s equally impressive 1/11 kept the pressure on the Tigresses. Although Sobhana Mostary top-scored with a steady 38 off 43 balls, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum and finished at 106/3.

In response, South Africa’s openers made a solid start, though they lost skipper Laura Wolvaardt for 7. Brits and Anneke Bosch formed a brisk 63-run partnership, laying the foundation for a comfortable chase. After the dismissals of Bosch (25) and Brits, big hitters Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon powered South Africa to victory, ending Bangladesh’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament.

With this victory, South Africa remains in the hunt for the semi-finals, while Bangladesh’s journey in this World Cup concludes after finishing with just two points from their group matches.