Indore – South Africa wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta insists her team is ready to reset and move forward after a crushing defeat to England, where they were bowled out for just 69 in their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 clash in Guwahati.
The Proteas, who now face New Zealand in Indore on Monday, are determined to put their batting woes behind them as the tournament enters a decisive phase.
“We Don’t Become a Bad Batting Unit Overnight”
Reflecting on the collapse, Jafta admitted South Africa’s batting lacked composure but stressed that the squad remains confident in its abilities.
“We always knew coming into a tournament like this, games like this can happen,” Jafta said. “Laura [Wolvaardt] capped it off nicely and said, we don’t become a bad batting unit overnight. The homework is done, and now it’s about looking forward to the next one.”
The shift to Indore, where New Zealand have already played once, has given South Africa what Jafta described as “a fresh perspective.” She added:
“For us, it’s just about knuckling down, batting with discipline, and taking it one ball at a time rather than worrying about the outcome.”
Learning From Mistakes
Jafta admitted that against England, South Africa were guilty of rushing their shots and losing focus.
“We weren’t really present in the moment. I realised even in my own dismissal, I wasn’t fully focused. It wasn’t a good day, but we won’t dwell on it. Tomorrow is another opportunity.”
The Proteas will now turn their attention to New Zealand, who are also coming off a defeat, against Australia.
Respecting the Opposition
Jafta acknowledged the threat posed by New Zealand, who boast experienced campaigners like Amelia Kerr, Suzie Bates, and Sophie Devine, alongside emerging talents such as Georgia Plimmer, Maddy Green, and Izzy Gaze.
“They’re very tactical and disciplined. As a bowling unit, we know we need to match that intensity. Execution will be crucial.”
South Africa have experience in subcontinent conditions, having toured Pakistan and Sri Lanka earlier this year. Jafta believes those tours have prepared the team well for the challenges of this World Cup.
Looking Ahead
While the heavy loss to England was a setback, Jafta is confident the team has the resilience to bounce back quickly.
“We’ve probably faced all of these deliveries in net sessions. We just need to execute in the game. It was a blowout, but we’ve got New Zealand ahead of us. The coach has reminded us: ‘Leave everything behind. Tomorrow is another opportunity.’”
For South Africa, Monday’s clash offers not just redemption but a chance to reignite their campaign against a side they have not met in an ODI since 2023.