‘They’ve been excellent’ – Laura Wolvaardt backs South Africa’s bowling attack to silence England in Women’s T20 World Cup Semi-final

South Africa Women captain Laura Wolvaardt has expressed confidence in her side’s experienced bowling attack ahead of their high-stakes ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final against hosts England women.

England have enjoyed a flawless campaign so far, winning all five of their group-stage matches. Their batting lineup has been one of the standout performers of the tournament, with veteran opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge leading the charge.

Despite England’s formidable batting strength, Wolvaardt believes South Africa have the bowling resources to challenge the hosts. The return of the experienced trio of Marizanne Kapp, Shabnim Ismail, and Ayabonga Khaka has significantly strengthened the Proteas’ attack.

The three pacers are playing together in a major tournament for the first time since 2023 and have already combined for 20 wickets during the ongoing competition. Kapp has been particularly economical, conceding runs at just 5.21 per over.

“I think Kapp is world-class, and when the ball’s moving around like that, I think [we] might as well use her overs early because she can, sort of, bowl really well up front and get us way ahead of the game early,” Wolvaardt was quoted as saying by IOL.  

“And we have the likes of Shabnim now as well, so we can maybe hold one of them back [and] use that over a bit later.”

The South African skipper also highlighted the tactical flexibility her side gains with two experienced fast bowlers capable of making an impact in both the Powerplay and the death overs. Having featured regularly in England through The Hundred, both Kapp and Ismail are well accustomed to the local conditions.

“They’ve been excellent in the Powerplay. So it’s been really nice having both of them and to be able to use them at different times, sort of captaincy-wise. But yeah, when Kapp’s on, I think I like to let her just keep going and do her thing,” Wolvaardt concluded.

The Proteas will face an unbeaten England side at The Oval on Thursday, July 02, after the first semi-final between Australia and West Indies takes place at Lord’s on Tuesday, June 30.