South Africa Women Dominate Ireland Women in Comprehensive Series Victory

Historic Performances Mark South African Superiority

The Ireland Women’s tour of South Africa in December 2025 has showcased the stark gulf in quality between the two sides, with the Proteas Women delivering commanding performances across all formats. South Africa Women defeated Ireland Women by 105 runs in Cape Town on December 5, 2025, setting the tone for what would become a dominant series display.

Wolvaardt’s Record-Breaking Century

Batting at No. 3, Wolvaardt scored a 52-ball century, the fastest for South Africa and the joint sixth-quickest in T20Is, and was involved in a 176-run second-wicket partnership with Luus as the hosts posted their highest T20I total of 220 for 2. This explosive innings demonstrated the captain’s exceptional form and leadership, as she finished unbeaten on 115 runs. The all-round performance from Sune Luus further highlighted South Africa’s dominance, as she contributed with both bat and ball throughout the series.

T20I Series Sweep

The T20I series proved one-sided from the outset. Dane Van Niekerk’s late blitz on the back of a sedate half-century from Faye Tunnicliffe helped South Africa beat Ireland by 65 runs in the second T20I in Paarl and take an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The return of former captain Dane van Niekerk after a lengthy absence added depth to an already formidable South African lineup, showcasing the team’s successful transition since the 2024 World Cup final.

ODI Domination Continues

South Africa Women beat Ireland Women by 7 wickets in the first ODI on December 13, 2025, at Buffalo Park in East London. Player of the match: Sune Luus once again proved instrumental with an unbeaten 66 off 72 balls, guiding the chase after Ireland posted 209 for 7. The second ODI between South Africa Women against Ireland Women at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, is scheduled for December 16, following the Proteas’ commanding 7-wicket victory in the opener.

Significance for Both Teams

This series is especially important for Proteas women, as it will be their first match since the 2025 World Cup final, where they lost to India by 52 runs at the DY Patil Stadium. For South Africa, these comprehensive victories signal their determination to bounce back stronger and maintain their status among cricket’s elite nations. Meanwhile, Ireland Women continue to gain valuable experience against top-tier opposition, despite the challenging results. The series serves as an important developmental opportunity as Ireland seeks to close the competitive gap in international women’s cricket.