Centurion – The Proteas Women are back in action today, February 25, 2026, facing Pakistan in the second One Day International (ODI) of their current series. Following a closely contested first match, South Africa aims to secure the series win on home soil. The match is currently underway and being broadcast live, offering cricket fans a chance to witness the ongoing battle between these two teams. This series is a crucial part of both teams’ preparations as they look ahead to the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup.
The first ODI, played on February 22, 2026, in Bloemfontein, saw South Africa emerge victorious by eight wickets. Marizanne Kapp delivered a stellar performance, earning Player of the Match honors. Kapp scored an impressive 121 not out, guiding her team to a successful chase of Pakistan’s total of 255/4. Ayabonga Khaka similarly shone with the ball, taking 2/36 in nine overs. Sidra Ameen of Pakistan contributed a significant 121* off 150 balls, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for her side. The match also marked a milestone for Ameen, as she reached her 2,000th run in ODI cricket.
Pakistan Wins the Toss, Elects to Bowl
In today’s second ODI, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that could influence the match dynamics depending on the pitch conditions at the Buffalo Park in East London. Super Sport reports that this strategic choice aims to exploit any early moisture or movement available to their bowlers.
Series Context and Team Form
The South Africa women’s cricket team toured Pakistan in September 2025, playing a three-match ODI series which South Africa won 2-1. According to Wikipedia, Tazmin Brits was named Player of the Series, showcasing her consistent performance throughout the tour. Sidra Ameen and Tazmin Brits were the leading run-scorers in that series, with 289 and 272 runs respectively, while Nashra Sandhu and Nadine de Klerk were the most successful bowlers, taking 6 and 5 wickets each.
Key Players to Watch
For South Africa, all eyes will be on Laura Wolvaardt, the captain, and Tazmin Brits, who demonstrated her prowess in the previous series. Marizanne Kapp’s all-round abilities – both with the bat and ball – will also be crucial. The Proteas will be hoping for another strong performance from Ayabonga Khaka in the bowling department. For Pakistan, Sidra Ameen will be looking to continue her impressive form with the bat, while Nashra Sandhu will be key to controlling the South African scoring rate with her spin bowling. Fatima Sana leads the Pakistan team.
Squads
Pakistan: Fatima Sana (c), Muneeba Ali (vc, wk), Sidra Ameen, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Natalia Pervaiz, Aliya Riaz, Syeda Aroob Shah, Nashra Sandhu, Sadaf Shamas, Rameen Shamim, Omaima Sohail, Shawaal Zulfiqar.
South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, Chloe Tryon.
Looking Ahead
The Proteas will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a series victory. The outcome of this match will significantly boost their confidence as they continue their preparations for the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup. Fans can stay updated with the live score and further developments on News24’s live coverage.
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