Nadine de Klerk’s Heroics Propel Proteas Past Bangladesh in Thrilling ODI World Cup Clash

South Africa faced a challenging match that was expected to be easier, highlighting the team’s knack for making things difficult. Fresh off their adrenaline-pumping victory against India, the Proteas were put to the test by a determined Bangladesh side in a Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 league match at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Monday, ultimately securing a narrow three-wicket victory.

Chasing a target of 233, South Africa got off to a shaky start with Tazmin Brits recording her second consecutive duck. Despite a 55-run partnership between Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch, their quick dismissals reignited Bangladesh’s hopes of an upset. Annerie Dercksen and Sinalo Jafta also fell early, but Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon anchored the innings with an 85-run partnership. Their crucial half-centuries tilted the balance in South Africa’s favor.

After Tryon was dismissed, the pressure was on the Proteas, who needed 35 runs off 31 balls. Nadine de Klerk, just as she did against India, ensured a tense victory for her team.

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh openers Fargana Hoque and Rubya Haider added 53 runs in 15 overs before Hoque was dismissed, caught at mid-on by de Klerk. A review confirmed Hoque was out leg before wicket. Sharmin Akhter and Nigar Sultana Joty kept Bangladesh’s momentum with a solid 77-run partnership off 91 balls, until Shorna Akter took charge with aggressive batting.

Shorna Akter capitalized on every opportunity to score, including a six over long-on off de Klerk. She reached her maiden half-century, thanks in part to a fortunate missed run-out. However, in the penultimate over, Shorna dropped a catch that could have dramatically changed the outcome, allowing South Africa to edge out Bangladesh in a thrilling finish.

Published on Oct 13, 2025.