When South Africa Women wrapped up their three‑match ODI tour with a 2‑1 series win over Pakistan Women at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on 22 September 2025, the cricketing world took note. The final day‑night clash not only delivered drama – with Nashra Sandhu’s stunning 6‑for‑26 – but also served as a decisive rehearsal for both squads ahead of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Here’s why the series matters beyond the scoreboard.
Series Overview and Context
The three‑match series was squeezed into a week‑long window – 16, 19 and 22 September – all at the same venue. That schedule gave both teams a rare chance to fine‑tune line‑ups and test strategies under identical conditions, something coaches often chase but rarely achieve. The <Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had rolled out the fixtures as part of a broader push to showcase women’s cricket at home, hoping the exposure would boost the sport’s profile after years of limited international action on Pakistani soil.
Day‑One: South Africa Takes Early Control
In the opener on 16 September, South Africa Women posted a competitive total, then bowled out the hosts for well below the chase. Key wickets fell early, and the Proteas’ bowlers – led by experienced pacer Marizanne Kapp – kept the pressure on. The win set the tone, giving the visitors a psychological edge and confirming they were in the right shape for the World Cup.
Day‑Two: A Nail‑Biting 26‑Run Victory
September 19 saw Pakistan Women fire back with a massive 287‑run total, powered by a scintillating 122 from Sidra Amin and a brisk 73 from Natalia Pervaiz. The partnership between Amin and Pervaiz was the highlight, turning what could have been a modest score into a defendable platform.
However, South Africa’s chase was anchored by a measured 84 from Lizelle Lee and a late‑stage surge from Chloe Tryon, who saw the Proteas over the line by 26 runs. The narrow margin reminded everyone that the series was still very much up for grabs.
Day‑Three: Sandhu’s Six‑For‑26 Turns the Tide
The final ODI, staged as a day‑night fixture, became the series’ most memorable chapter. Nashra Sandhu ripped through the South African batting order, claiming six wickets for just 26 runs in 9.2 overs – figures that rank among the best in women’s ODI history. Her spell dismantled the top order, leaving Marizanne Kapp exposed and forcing a collapse.
In response, Sidra Amin showed grit, carrying her bat to 50 off 94 balls. She partnered with Muneeba Ali, who added 44, to steer Pakistan to a respectable 117/4 in 31 overs before the match was called off due to rain. The win was a consolation for the hosts, but more importantly, it gave the PCB a headline‑grabbing performance to promote women’s cricket back home.
Key Performances and Emerging Talents
- Nashra Sandhu – 6/26, a career‑best that put her on the radar of major T20 leagues.
- Sidra Amin – 122, 73 and 50 across the three matches, establishing herself as Pakistan’s premier middle‑order hitter.
- Lizelle Lee – steady 84 in the second ODI, underscoring her role as a chase specialist.
- Chloe Tryon – 41* in the second ODI, her late‑innings fire sealed the win.
Several players earned their first ODI caps during the series, signalling a generational shift. For South Africa, the debut of fast‑bowling all‑rounder Tumi Sekhukhune added depth to a squad already brimming with experience.
Reactions from Coaches and Administrators
South Africa head coach Roy Dias praised his side’s resilience: “We knew the conditions would be tough, but the girls showed character, especially after that sandstorm of wickets on day three.” He added that the series offered a realistic gauge of the team’s balance ahead of the World Cup.
PCB chairman Ramiz Minhas highlighted the broader impact: “Hosting this series at Gaddafi Stadium sends a powerful message that women’s cricket belongs on the big stage in Pakistan. Sandhu’s heroics will inspire the next generation.”
Implications for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
Both squads now turn their attention to the World Cup, slated to begin in October 2025 in India. South Africa enters as one of the pre‑tournament favourites, their recent form suggesting a solid top‑order and a lethal death‑overs attack. Pakistan, meanwhile, must decide whether to tweak their batting order or rely on the momentum generated by Sandhu’s spell.
Analysts point out that the series exposed a lingering weakness in South Africa’s spin department – a gap that the sub‑continent conditions at the World Cup will likely exploit. Conversely, Pakistan’s ability to post a 287‑run total indicates that their line‑up can compete with the best, provided they convert starts into partnerships.
What Comes Next?
In the next two weeks, South Africa will face a high‑intensity training camp in Johannesburg, focusing on fielding drills and middle‑order consolidation. Pakistan plans a home series against Sri Lanka Women in early November, hoping to fine‑tune their bowlers before the World Cup launch.
The series in Lahore has reminded fans that women’s cricket can deliver drama, skill, and storylines worthy of prime‑time coverage. As the World Cup approaches, the narratives forged in Lahore will linger in the minds of players and supporters alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Nashra Sandhu’s performance affect Pakistan’s bowling strategy?
Sandhu’s 6‑for‑26 demonstrated that pace can dominate on sub‑continental wickets, prompting the PCB to build their attack around her speed and swing. Coaches are likely to give her the new‑ball in most matches, while also pairing her with experienced spinner Ayesha Naseem to offer variety.
What are the key takeaways for South Africa ahead of the World Cup?
The Proteas learned the importance of depth in the middle order and the need to adapt quickly when wickets fall early. Their batting unit will focus on rotating strike and finishing power, while the bowling staff will work on variations for spin‑friendly pitches.
Why was Gaddafi Stadium chosen for all three ODIs?
The PCB selected Gaddafi Stadium to centralise logistics, ensure consistent pitch preparation, and showcase its world‑class facilities. The venue’s capacity and flood‑light system also allowed for a day‑night finale, adding spectacle for fans.
How did the series impact the perception of women’s cricket in Pakistan?
Hosting an international series signalled a commitment to gender‑inclusive sport. The televised matches drew higher-than‑expected viewership, and Sandhu’s heroics generated buzz on social media, encouraging more girls to consider cricket as a viable path.
When does the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup begin?
The tournament kicks off on 1 October 2025 in India, featuring 10 teams battling across multiple venues until the final in Mumbai on 15 November 2025.
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