Sri Lanka, Oct. 30 -- Skipper Laura Wolvaardt produced a sparkling knock of 169 off 143 balls, anchoring South Africa Women to a commanding total of 319 for 7 wickets in 50 overs against England Women in their ICC Women's World Cup semi-final played in Guwahati yesterday.

It was a superb batting display by the experienced right-handed opener, who guided her team from the start until the 48th over. Wolvaardt reached her first World Cup century (also her 10th ODI hundred) at a crucial stage, setting a daunting challenge for the three-time semi-finalists England to chase a record total.

After being invited to bat first, South African openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits set a strong foundation with a 116-run partnership in 22.2 overs. ...