Opening batter Lizelle Lee struck a century, as the Proteas Women beat Thailand by 113 runs in Friday’s Women’s T20 World Cup fixture at the Manuka Oval in Canberra, Australia.
South Africa went into the fixture without experienced all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, who was sidelined by illness. They fared superbly without her, regardless.
Lee hit 101 off a mere 60 deliveries, which featured 16 fours and three sixes. Her ton spearheaded the Proteas Women to a final total of 195 for three.
The total marked the highest in the history of the tournament. It is also the largest by South Africa in all women’s T20I cricket.
The hard-hitting Lee welcomed a maiden T20I ton, having struck 11 half-centuries previously. She was well supported by sidekick Sune Luus, who collected 61 from 41, which was lined with five fours and a duo of sixes.
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South Africa’s performance in the field started poorly, as deep midwicket fielder Shabnim Ismail dropped a catch in the first over of Thailand’s response with the bat. The very next over saw cover fielder Nadine de Klerk drop another.
Ultimately, though, the Proteas Women limited Thailand to a mere 82 all out. Seamer Ismail starred with telling figures of three for eight in 3.1 overs. Her haul included the successive dismissals of top-order batters Nannapat Koncharoenkai and Naruemol Chaiwai.
South Africa will meet the Pakistan Women at the Sydney Showground Stadium on Sunday.
Photo: Gallo Images
