The excitement of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 continues as Sri Lanka Women take on South Africa Women in Match 18 at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Friday, October 17, at 3:00 PM IST. Fans are gearing up for an intense clash between the underdogs and one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
Team Form and Context
Sri Lanka Women (SL-W)
Sri Lanka has had a challenging start to the tournament, currently sitting seventh on the points table without a win. Two of their matches were impacted by rain, and the home crowd will be hoping their team can finally open their winning account. Led by Chamari Athapaththu, the Lankan Lionesses will look to bounce back in front of their fans.
South Africa Women (SA-W)
South Africa, on the other hand, has been in formidable form, winning three matches and standing third on the table. The Proteas are determined to continue their winning momentum and strengthen their position in the tournament.
Venue & Pitch Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium is known for presenting challenges to teams batting second. Rain interruptions can slow the pitch, disrupting batting rhythm, while the slow surface often favors bowlers later in the innings. Spinners, in particular, can exploit the conditions, making this match a tactical battle between bat and ball.
Head-to-Head Record
The history between these two teams heavily favors South Africa:
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Matches Played: 25
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Sri Lanka Wins: 6
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South Africa Wins: 16
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Tied/No Result: 3
The most recent encounter in May 2025 ended in a South African victory, reinforcing their dominance over Sri Lanka in ODI cricket.
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka Women:
Hasini Perera, Chamari Athapaththu (c), Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi de Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera
South Africa Women:
Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Annerie Dercksen, Marizanne Kapp, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Masabata Klaas, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba
Key Players to Watch
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Tazmin Brits (SA-W) – The South African opener could be the batter to watch. Despite a couple of low scores recently, her ODI form has been impressive. Brits is known for her finishing abilities and could be crucial in chasing or setting a target.
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Inoka Ranaweera (SL-W) – The Sri Lankan left-arm spinner has taken seven wickets in three matches. Playing at home, she could exploit the pitch conditions and restrict South Africa’s scoring.
Match Prediction
Considering the current form, head-to-head record, and player strengths, South Africa Women are favorites to win this match. Predicted scores:
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Sri Lanka Women: 220–240
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South Africa Women: 250–270
However, the unpredictable nature of cricket, combined with home advantage and spin-friendly conditions, could make Sri Lanka a tough opponent.
Conclusion
This clash promises to be an exciting encounter between the determined hosts and the in-form Proteas. Fans can expect intense bowling battles, key individual performances, and strategic gameplay. While South Africa seems likely to continue their winning streak, Sri Lanka’s home advantage and spin attack could make it a thrilling contest.
Catch the live action on JioStar Network channels or stream it on JioHotstar at 3:00 PM IST on October 17, 2025.
