Laura Wolvaardt’s first-ever century propelled the Proteas Women to a commanding 79-run victory for a 1-0 series lead in the first T20 International against Sri Lanka at Willowmoore Park in Benoni on Wednesday evening, 27 March, 2024.Wolvaardt’s majestic knock of 102 runs from 63 balls (12 fours, 3 sixes) including a substantial 116-run partnership with Marizanne Kapp, who contributed 60 runs from 40 deliveries, including 4 fours and 3 sixes, enabled South Africa to post their second-highest T20I total of 198/5 after 20 overs.

In response, Sri Lanka faltered and was bowled out for 119 runs in 18.2 overs, with Annerie Dercksen (2/15) and Tumi Sekhukhune (2/25) both claiming two wickets each to help secure the victory for the home side.

Despite losing the toss and being asked to bat first, South Africa’s opening pair of Tazmin Brits (15) and Wolvaardt provided a quick start, reaching 25/0 in the third over before Brits was dismissed by Inoshi Priyadharshani (1/25). However, Wolvaardt found a reliable partner in Kapp, and together they guided South Africa to 55/1 after the powerplay.

South Africa maintained their momentum, reaching 80/1 at the halfway mark, with Kapp and Wolvaardt solidifying their partnership. Wolvaardt achieved her 11th T20I half-century during this period, while Kapp notched up her fourth fifty in the game’s shortest format.