SA U19 Women open T20 World Cup campaign on a winning note

The South African youngsters posted a total of 91-7 in their allotted overs with opener Jemma Botha top-scoring with 32 from 24 balls while Karabo Meso struck 25 from 14 deliveries and Simone Lourens hit 21 off 14.

The bowlers then got into their work and restricted New Zealand to 69-5 with seamer Monalisa Legodi the pick of the bowlers after returning figures of 2-8 in her two overs.

Captain and off-spinner Kayla Reyneke also chipped in with 2 wickets while going for 15 runs in three overs.

Botha was named player-of-the-match for her innings at the top of the order that included two fours and a single six.

"Switching to a shorter format after the rain delay required quick adaptation," Botha said. "I focused on staying mentally engaged and keeping the team's goal at the forefront.

"It is a proud moment to contribute to the team's success in the opening game of the World Cup and to be part of history, playing and winning the first-ever match at this new venue."

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