SA women hoping for victory number three

South Africa have one of the best bowling attacks at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, but captain Dane van Niekerk knows the side cannot afford to ease off ahead of a clash with host England.

The Proteas travel to Bristol today hoping to make it three wins from as many completed games, having thrashed the West Indies by 10 wickets on Sunday.

With the world’s No 1 bowler, Marizanne Kapp, South Africa was always going to be a threat with the ball, and that showed in Leicester as the Windies side was skittled out for 48.

Van Niekerk produced remarkable figures, grabbing four wickets without conceding a run in the game, but knows that beating the hosts will be another challenge entirely.

“We know how good England are, bowling and batting wise,” she said.

“But the girls have been working really hard in the nets and it’s about applying ourselves.

“We know we are going to face some tough bowling but our team is working hard to go about winning every game.

“We know it is going to be a very tough one and don’t want to be complacent.

“The most important thing is staying on top of our game.

“We spoke about it and must not get ahead of ourselves, we know we still have to face some very tough opposition.

“We don’t want to underestimate anyone, the last thing we want to do is put our feet up after two good performances.

“It’s a very long tournament, but we have come here to win a World Cup.