The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 will have its seventh match, with South Africa Women and New Zealand Women on October 6, 2025 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. Both the teams will be looking forward to bounce back after their tough defeats in their opening matches, this battle is vital for establishing momentum and confidence in the competition.
Match Overview
New Zealand faced defeat in their opening match against Australia, despite a superb century from captain Sophie Devine (112). Meanwhile, South Africa struggled against England, being dismissed for just 69 runs in a one-sided contest. Both the teams will be searching for their first win, the match in Indore promises a strong battle between two quality sides.
The Holkar Stadium is known for its batting-friendly conditions, fast outfield and short boundaries. However, bowlers who hit the right areas could find variable bounce and a bit of grip as the game progresses. The average first-innings score here is expected to be around 310, which means fans can anticipate a high-scoring encounter.
South Africa Women – Probable Playing XI
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Sinalo Jafta (wk), Suné Luus, Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Caitlin Tryon, Marizanne Kapp, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas.
New Zealand Women – Probable Playing XI
Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Georgia Plimmer, Suzie Bates, Jess Kerr, Bree Illing, Brooke Halliday, Eden Carson, Amelia Kerr, Lea Tahuhu, Sophie Devine (C).
Key Players
- South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (C), Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka & Nonkululeko Mlaba
- New Zealand Women: Sophie Devine (C), Amelia Kerr, Lea Tahuhu
Also read: Why did BCCI remove Rohit Sharma as ODI captain? Here’s the real reason
Head-to-Head Record in WODIs
- Total Matches: 20
- Wins by South Africa Women: 8
- Wins by New Zealand Women: 12
- No Result/Tied: 0
New Zealand hold a slight advantage over South Africa in their overall WODI meetings, having won 12 out of 20 matches so far.
Team Strategy and Focus
South Africa
After a heavy loss against England, the Proteas should be working on rebuilding their batting confidence, highlighting strong partnerships in both the top and middle order. Kapp and Khaka are expected to lead the bowling attack, Mlaba and Tryon are expected to dominate the middle overs.
New Zealand
The White Ferns will rely on Devine and Kerr to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. Tahuhu’s pace upfront and spinners in the middle overs will aim to restrict runs. Strong fielding and smart running between the wickets will be key.
Pitch and Conditions
The Holkar Stadium pitch generally suits batting, with even bounce and a quick outfield. However, as the match progresses, bowlers might get some help from the pitch, especially spinners. The weather is expected to stay clear in Indore between 28°C and 34°C, allowing for a full match to take place without interruption.
Conclusion
The South Africa vs New Zealand clash in Indore is set to be a thrilling contest between two sides eager to register their first victory in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. With both teams boasting strong all-rounders and powerful top orders, the team that handles pressure better and maintains consistency across all departments is likely to come out on top.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
