In perfect Colombo weather — sunny and thankfully dry — Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu has decided to bat first against South Africa in their crucial Women’s World Cup 2025 clash.
The decision comes as Athapaththu, inspired by her team’s strong performance against New Zealand, hopes to put early runs on the board and test the South African chase under lights.
Big moment for South Africa! Eighteen-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso is making her World Cup debut, replacing Sinalo Jafta in the playing XI.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt also welcomed the return of Sune Luus, who is fit again after missing the Bangladesh game with a hip strain. Meanwhile, off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase replaces Anneke Bosch to strengthen the attack against Sri Lanka’s left-hand batters.
The selection clearly shows South Africa’s tactical thinking — they’re targeting matchups against Sri Lanka’s top-order lefties. Annerie Dercksen retains her spot after an impressive showing in the last match, while Ayabonga Khaka remains on the sidelines.
South Africa have been clinical while chasing lately, winning their last two games in similar conditions. With dew expected later, Wolvaardt was more than happy to bowl first — even though the surface has been under covers for two days.
Interestingly, Sri Lanka remain unchanged despite not having registered a single win yet. However, they do have two points from two rain-affected matches — both no-results.
Athapaththu and her team will hope for a full game this time, and their batters will aim to repeat the aggressive intent they showed when they scored 258/6 against New Zealand before rain spoiled the party.
