South Africa Women Dominate Ireland Women in December 2025 Series

Introduction: A Showcase of Proteas Supremacy

The Ireland Women’s tour of South Africa in December 2025 has demonstrated the Proteas’ exceptional form and dominance in international women’s cricket. Following their runner-up finish at the 2025 Women’s World Cup, South Africa Women have continued their impressive trajectory by comprehensively defeating Ireland across both T20I and ODI formats. This series holds particular significance as it marks the international comeback of former captain Dane van Niekerk and showcases the team’s depth and quality.

T20I Series: Record-Breaking Performances

Laura Wolvaardt’s 56-ball 115 helped South Africa beat Ireland in the first women’s T20I by 105 runs at Newlands, with Wolvaardt scoring a 52-ball century, the fastest for South Africa and the joint sixth-quickest in T20Is. Wolvaardt was involved in a 176-run second-wicket partnership with Luus as the hosts posted their highest T20I total of 220 for 2. In the second T20I, Dane Van Niekerk’s late blitz helped South Africa beat Ireland by 65 runs in Paarl, taking an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, as van Niekerk thrashed a 19-ball 41 taking South Africa past their second consecutive 200-plus total.

ODI Series: Batting Masterclasses

South Africa batted first after winning the toss in the 2nd ODI and posted a mammoth total of 375/6 in 50 overs, with skipper Laura Wolvaardt (124) and Sune Luus (114) blasting centuries. In response, Ireland managed to cross the 300-run mark but it was not enough in front of the massive 376-run target, though Orla Prendergast (97) and Amy Hunter (67) showed some resilience with the bat for Ireland. South Africa have taken an unassailable lead of 2-0 in the series with this victory, having won the first ODI by 7 wickets.

Significance and Looking Ahead

This series demonstrates South Africa Women’s continued excellence in international cricket and their readiness to compete at the highest level. Boasting a lopsided head-to-head record of 19 wins from 21 ODIs against Ireland (one defeat, one no result), the Proteas enter with sky-high confidence. The performances of Wolvaardt, Luus, and the returning van Niekerk highlight the team’s blend of consistency and explosive talent. For Ireland, the tour provides valuable experience against top-tier opposition as they continue developing their women’s cricket programme. With one ODI remaining on December 19, South Africa will look to complete a clean sweep across both formats.