HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND (AFP) – South Africa notched a two-wicket win over New Zealand yesterday to virtually guarantee themselves a spot in the Women’s Cricket World Cup semi-finals and leave the hosts in danger of elimination.
South Africa emerged victorious from a tight, low-scoring contest and are the only team to match tournament favourite Australia’s record of four wins from four matches.
It was a third loss in five games for New Zealand, who are in a precarious position after blowing their chance to set a big total and put the match beyond South Africa.
New Zealand now face a must-win clash against holders England in Auckland on Sunday.
South Africa bowled the home side out for 228 in 47.5 overs in Hamilton, then chased down the total with three balls to spare.
South Africa’s quick bowlers nullified New Zealand’s potent batting line-up before Laura Wolvaardt scored 67, her third successive half century at the tournament.
