South Africa completely outplayed Sri Lanka for a thumping 87-32 victory at the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town. Now the highly anticipated clash against the Sunshine Girls of Jamaica waits on Sunday.
No result is a foregone conclusion but even before the first whistle blew, history indicated that the result could only go one way.
The Proteas are ranked fifth in the world and Sri Lanka 15th. South Africa have a win percentage of 67% in nine appearances at the World Cup and Sri Lanka 24% at ten.
South Africa romp to an impressive victory over Sri Lanka at the #NWC2023
— SuperSport ?? (@SuperSportTV) July 29, 2023
Much need momentum for the SPAR Proteas ahead of their tricky encounter against Jamaica tomorrow ???? #HereForHer pic.twitter.com/9fFFlzjSTk
There were a few milestones for the Proteas, with star defender Karla Pretorius earning her 100th cap when she came off the bench in the third quarter. Ine-Marie Venter got her 50th start for South Africa with an appearance in the last 15 minutes.
Goal shooter Lenize Potgieter still hasn’t seen any action after eight quarters of play. Both her knees are strapped, with the right more heavy.
She had an operation in July last year and went through intensive rehabilitation. Yesterday South African coach Norma Plummer said they are not taking any chances.
From the start of the match, South Africa demonstrated their intent to dominate the game. Led by captain Bongiwe Msomi, the Proteas displayed seamless coordination and impeccable passing.
Their attack was relentless, finding gaps in the Sri Lankan defence and converting opportunities with clinical precision. They went into half-time leading 45-18.
The next two quarters saw South Africa applying even more pressure with the defenders in top form, applying intense pressure on their opponents.
Jeante Strydom on wing defence was especially outstanding. She grabbed several intercepts and made her presence well and truly known.
She was duly rewarded with the award for most valuable player of the match.
?? 28 July 2023: Jeante Strydom debuts for the at the #NWC2023
— SuperSport ?? (@SuperSportTV) July 29, 2023
?? 29 July 2023: Jeante Strydom is crowned the Player of the Match
Lightwork for Jeante ??#HereForHer pic.twitter.com/g7VOAWHZTF
With nine minutes to go, South Africa stretched their lead to 50 points for the first time.
They then seemed to take their feet off the pedal somewhat with the victory secured and not wanting to risk serious injury of what is promising to be a pulsating affair tomorrow against Jamaica.
Most Valuable Player: Jeante Strydom (South Africa)
Goal Shooting Percentage: South Africa 87.9% / Sri Lanka 84.2%
Penalty Count (Contact and Obstruction): South Africa 64/ Sri Lanka 27
Quarter scores: 24-9 / 45-18 / 68-24 / 87-32