Daijiworld Media Network - Manchester

Manchester, Jun 22: South Africa defeated India by six wickets in a Group A match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Manchester on Sunday, riding on an unbeaten 81-run knock by Marizanne Kapp.

Chasing a target of 159 set by India, South Africa reached 161 for four in 19.1 overs, with five balls to spare. Tazmin Brits contributed 40 runs to the successful chase, while Kapp guided the team home with a match-winning innings.

For India, Shree Charani was the standout bowler, taking three wickets.

Earlier, India won the toss and opted to bat first, posting 158 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Shafali Verma was India’s top scorer with 31 runs.

For South Africa, Kapp and Shabnim Ismail claimed two wickets each to restrict India’s total.

Marizanne Kapp was named the Player of the Match for her all-round contribution.

The match also marked a historic milestone for Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who became the first cricketer — male or female — to feature in 200 T20 international matches.