South Africa stormed to a dominant 105-run victory over Ireland, riding on Laura Wolvaardt’s explosive 115* off 56 balls and a superb all-round performance from Sune Luus at Newlands.
Wolvaardt smashed the fastest T20I century by a South African woman – reaching her hundred in just 52 balls – and stitched a commanding 176-run stand with Luus, who contributedcareer-best 81. Their partnership fired South Africa to record 220 for 2, the highest T20I total in their history.
Luus wasn’t done yet. Given the new ball, she struck twice in the opening over to remove Amy Hunter and Orla Prendergast, breaking Ireland early in what was already an improbable chase. Ireland never recovered, with only Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul offering brief resistance in a 42-run stand.
Once that partnership broke, South Africa’s spinners ran riot, claiming nine wickets between them. Luus finished with 4 for 22, while Mlaba and Tryon grabbed two each as Ireland collapsed for 115.
A ruthless batting show and clinical bowling performance handed South Africa one of their biggest T20I wins ever, a statement start to the series.
