Five-time champions Australia rode on opener Rachael Haynes’ career-best knock of 83 to beat South Africa by three wickets in their Group-B Women’s World Cup match here at Driems ground on Sunday. With this win, their second in a row, the Aussies ensured themselves a berth in the super-six round.
South Africa, who suffered their second straight defeat, however, had the consolation of giving the Aussies a good fight. Electing to bat, South Africa overcame a horrible start (0-2) to compile a decent total of 188 for nine. Marizanne Kapp (61 off 102, 10x4) and opener Trisha Chetty (59 off 94, 10x4) rescued them, hitting a half-century each and stitching together 122 for the third wicket. Among the successful Australian bowlers, Ellyse Perry took three for 35 and Megan Schutt two for 42. Australia too struggled in their chase as they were reduced to 34 for three.