South Africa wrapped up their challenging tour to the subcontinent in fine style. While they were unable to reach the final, they will take plenty of positives from their emphatic win over the hosts in their final match.

Former Free State all-rounder Annerie Dercksen once again impressed with the bat, while seasoned campaigner Chloé Tryon claimed a rare hat-trick with the ball.

Annerie Dercksen. Photo: Cricinfo

The Proteas were put in to bat first and posted a commanding 315/9 in their allotted 50 overs, despite being in trouble at 127/6 after 29 overs.

Dercksen scored her maiden ODI century – her third consecutive innings with a personal-best score. On Friday, she smashed 104 off 85 balls, including nine fours and five sixes. Tryon also delivered a powerful performance with the bat, blasting 74 off 51 balls, featuring four boundaries and five sixes.

In reply, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, always a threat, top-scored with 52, while wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani added 43. However, the hosts were bowled out for 239 in 42.5 overs.

Chloe Tryon. Photo: Cricinfo

Tryon not only claimed a hat-trick but also registered her first-ever five-wicket haul in ODIs, finishing with 5/34 in eight overs to lead the attack.

In the 42nd over, Tryon dismissed Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Kumari, and Malki Madara with three consecutive deliveries to complete her hat-trick. Nadine de Klerk took two excellent catches to help secure the feat.

Ayabonga Khaka chipped in with 2/30, while debutant Seshnie Naidu claimed a wicket. Free State all-rounder Miané Smit, playing just her second ODI, also celebrated her maiden international scalp.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg