Top 3 reasons why New Zealand-W lost to South Africa-W in the Women's World Cup 2025 match 7

South Africa Women won a confident six-wicket victory over New Zealand Women in Match 7 of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 at Indore's Holkar Stadium. New Zealand batted first and began well with captain Sophie Devine playing a great innings of 85 runs. At one stage, they were 187/3 and looked on course for a good total. After that, though, things went a little awry. South Africa's Nonkululeko Mlaba bowled exceptionally well with figures of 4-40. Her bowling caused a big collapse as New Zealand lost their last seven wickets for just 44 runs and got all out for 231 in 47.5 overs.

South Africa had no trouble chasing the target. Opener Tazmin Brits batted brilliantly, scoring 101 runs from 89 balls. She was well supported by Sune Luus, who stayed not out with 83 runs. Both added 159 runs together and made the chase look very easy. South Africa reached the target in 40.5 overs and won the match with 55 balls to spare. South Africa maintained their good run in the tournament and scored precious points with this victory. Below are the main reasons for the New Zealand Women defeat:

1. Tazmin Brits’ Record-Breaking Century

Tazmin Brits was the player of the match with a wonderful century, as she scored 101 runs off 89 balls, her fifth hundred in 2025 and the most by any player in a single year. Her confident batting was the perfect start for South Africa and made the chase look easy.

2. Nonkululeko Mlaba’s Match-Winning Spell

Nonkululeko Mlaba's precise bowling tilted the game in South Africa's direction. She claimed 4 wickets for 40 runs, taking important players such as Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday out. Her spell shattered the rhythm of New Zealand and caused them to collapse.

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3. New Zealand’s Batting Collapse

After they reaching on 187 for 3, New Zealand then lost seven wickets for 44 runs. Lack of good shot selection and stress from South Africa's bowlers prevented them from scoring bigger. This collapse forced them to lose the game even after starting well.