Kapp’s Unbeaten 81 Powers South Africa to Crucial Win Over India in Women’s T20 World Cup
Marizanne Kapp was the star performer for South Africa as they pulled off a six-wicket win against India in an important Group 1 contest at Old Trafford, Manchester, England during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. The veteran all-rounder shone with the ball first and then followed it up by guiding her team home with an unbeaten 81, as South African reaffirmed their chances of making the semi-finals.
Opting to bat first India completed their fixture with 158 for 7 in the 20 overs. The start however was bright as the openers played freely during the powerplay. South Africa, however, hit back through disciplined bowling and with regular scalps at the death overs kept India from obtaining a mammoth total. Kapp did the damage with crucial wickets which stopped India’s charge in its tracks.
South Africa, chasing a target of 159, had some initial hiccups as they were left reeling at 25 for 2. While India continued to dominate with the ball, Kapp had other ideas. The veteran batter held the innings together like a rock, displaying judiciousness by combining bona fide aggression and smart strike rotation. Tazmin Brits had proven the perfect foil, adding a match-altering 97-run partnership that tilted the balance of power firmly into South Africa’s hands.
Kapp also remained at the crease, on 81*, and guided the Proteas home with six wickets in hand. Her innings consisted of aplomb and demonstrated why she is still one of the finest all-rounders in the world — on pressure-facing experiences. It also saw one of the best match-winning performances in this tournament so far.
The loss was a massive blow for India as they were supposed to ease into the semis after beginning their campaign on a high note. They also took early wickets but once Kapp and Britts settled, they were unable to keep their runs in check. For South Africa, those valuable points coupled with the momentum definitely gained as a result of Kapp’s heroics will give them tremendous heart and hope going into the last few matches of the group phase.
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