Proteas Women final ODI: winner-takes-all series decider

Series on the Line as Proteas Women Prepare for Winner-Takes-All ODI Against Windies

Summary

With the ODI series between the Proteas Women and West Indies level at 1–1, South Africa faces a winner-takes-all final match at the scenic Three Ws Oval in Barbados. Buoyed by a stunning comeback in the second ODI on June 14, the Proteas Women stand poised to seal the series. Emerging all-rounder Nondumiso Shangase, fresh off her maiden ODI fifty, emphasized the importance of focus, execution, and mental resilience ahead of this high-stakes encounter.

2nd ODI, June 14: South Africa Women 309/9 (S. Luus 76, N. Shangase 55) beat West Indies Women 269 all out by 40 runs.

The Stage Is Set—Proteas Women Eye Series Victory

The Proteas Women’s tour of the West Indies reached a dramatic swing point when South Africa leveled the series 1–1 with a commanding 40-run win in the second ODI. Now, all charge converges on Tuesday, June 17, when the final match will determine the series winner at 10:00 local time (16:00 SAST), broadcast live on SuperSport Cricket.

Shangase’s Breakout and Team Confidence

Right-arm off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase, just 29, emerged as the hero of Game Two with a gritty maiden ODI fifty—an emotional yet powerful 55 off 48 balls featuring four fours and two sixes. Media snapshots highlighted her composed assurance:

"I won't say we're too happy or too down... we know what's at stake here and we're ready for Tuesday," Shangase told reporters .

Her innings, combined with captain Suné Luus’s 76 off 55, propelled South Africa to their highest-ever ODI total (309) against the West Indies.

Shangase admitted to feeling "really emotional" upon reaching the fifty, but her resolve remained strong as she focused on the next challenge. That maturity bolstered the squad’s morale as they closed the series with renewed rhythm.

The Mental Edge Proteas Inspired by Men’s WTC Triumph

South African cricket fans have much to celebrate—especially the men’s team victory at Lord’s in the ICC World Test Championship Final. The women’s squad shared in that pride:

“Yes, we were inspired... we even missed breakfast that day because we watched every run,” Shangase revealed .

That collective experience highlights the growing depth of South African cricket. Drawing inspiration from male counterparts is a sign of ambition and belief that spans gender lines.

Series Finale Strategy Mind the Pitch, Hit the Mark

CricketTimes’ Dream11 preview suggests a balanced pitch at Three Ws Oval—batters likely to dominate early, with swing bowlers benefiting in the middle overs. For the Proteas, it's a game of execution: bat with clarity to set a defendable total, then attack relentlessly with the ball.

Western oppositions led by captain Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Nonkululeko Mlaba, and Chloé Tryon are poised for the challenge. Success in the decider could put the Proteas Women ahead in confidence heading into the upcoming T20Is.

Windies Rebuffed But Not Broken

West Indies took the opener in spectacular fashion, chasing 180 in 32 overs, powered by a 60 off 58 from Qiana Joseph. The bounce back in Game Two fell short, despite half-centuries by captain Hayley Matthews (56) and Shemaine Campbelle (53).

The home side faces mounting pressure—with fervent local support but limited room for error. Fast bowlers like Afy Fletcher, Chinelle Henry, and newcomers Karishma Ramharack, plus spin threats in the middle overs, need to rise collectively.

Stakes High For Pride and Momentum

A series win in Barbados would mean confidence, ranking points, and momentum going into T20Is and beyond, including the 2025 Women’s World Cup. For South Africa, it’s a chance to show depth in women’s cricket and show consistency away from home. For West Indies, it’s a pivotal test in front of home crowds at a famous venue.