The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 began with high expectations, but South Africa Women’s cricket team suffered a huge setback in their opening match against England. Playing at Guwahati, the Proteas were bowled out for just 69 runs in 20.4 overs, making it one of their lowest-ever scores in Women’s ODI World Cups.
This collapse highlighted their batting struggles against England’s disciplined bowling attack. Linsey Smith led the charge with three wickets, while Nat Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean also chipped in to dismantle South Africa.
South Africa’s Lowest Totals in Women’s ODI World Cup
South Africa have generally been a strong side in women’s cricket, but World Cup history shows that batting collapses have hurt them badly at times.
Lowest Innings Totals for South Africa Women in ODI World Cups:
| Score | Opposition | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 all out | vs New Zealand | Bowral | 2009 |
| 69 all out | vs England | Guwahati | 2025 |
| 77 all out | vs England | Cuttack | 2013 |
The 69-run total in 2025 is their second-lowest score in Women’s World Cup history and ranks among the worst collapses overall in the tournament.
Read Also:- England vs South Africa Women ODI Head to Head Records
Lowest Team Totals in Women’s ODI World Cup History
South Africa’s 69 may look poor, but history shows even more shocking batting failures in the Women’s World Cup. Pakistan holds the unwanted record for the lowest-ever total in the competition.
Lowest Totals in Women’s ODI World Cup (All Teams):
| Team | Score | Opposition | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 27 all out | vs Australia | 1997 |
| Netherlands | 29 all out | vs Australia | 1988 |
| India | 37 all out | vs New Zealand | 1982 |
| Netherlands | 40 all out | vs New Zealand | 1993 |
| Denmark | 47 all out | vs England | 1993 |
| South Africa | 51 all out | vs New Zealand | 2009 |
| South Africa | 69 all out | vs England | 2025 |
South Africa Women’s team has been playing good cricket in recent years, but this early collapse in the 2025 World Cup is a big wake-up call. To remain in contention, their batters will need to bounce back quickly, showing better patience and adaptability against strong bowling attacks.
England, on the other hand, would be delighted with this performance, starting their World Cup journey in dominant fashion. Their bowlers showcased discipline, aggression, and teamwork, giving them early momentum in the tournament.
Conclusion
South Africa Women’s total of 69 runs in Guwahati will be remembered as one of their worst batting collapses in the World Cup. While Pakistan’s 27 all out (1997) remains the lowest-ever, South Africa’s performance highlights the unpredictability of World Cup cricket. Fans will now wait to see how the Proteas respond in their upcoming matches.
