England became the first defending champions to lose their first three games at a Women’s World Cup, leaving their hopes hanging by a thread.
A sloppy fielding performance saw England lose by three wickets to South Africa, who have won their first three matches. This was South Africa’s first win over England at a World Cup for 20 years.
For England, this follows defeats to Australia and West Indies meaning they must win their remaining four group games to have any hope of qualifying for the semi-finals.
South Africa won the toss and opted to field. England stumbled to 42 for three, but half-centuries from Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones steadied them and they were able to reach 235 for nine in their 50 overs. Marizanne Kapp, the veteran quick, took career-best figures of five for 45.
South Africa made it home with three wickets and four balls to spare in a thrilling chase, having been 199 for six after 44 overs.
Laura Wolvaardt, the elegant opener, made 77, but was missed four times by England, while Kapp made a crucial 32.
“For some reason we haven’t clicked, and we’re finding it really hard to do so,” said Lisa Keightley, the England coach.
