A victory will guarantee South Africa a top-of-the-table finish – a feat they have never achieved in history. However, the Australians remain the benchmark, and while the Proteas are keenly aware of the opportunity, they know the job is far from complete.

All-rounder Anneke Bosch (31), the former Free State and North West player, confirmed the squad’s ambition while maintaining a sense of realism.

Anneke Bosch. Photo: Cricinfo

“We’re looking forward to the opportunity to play against Australia. We obviously want to do well and hopefully finish top of the table,” said Bosch.

She acknowledged the gravity of the challenge posed by the reigning champions.

“They’re a world-class team and really difficult to beat. As defending champions, they’ve been playing exceptional cricket throughout the whole tournament. It’s going to be a big challenge and a good contest, but I think if we just play our best cricket, the result will sort of take care of itself.” 

Australia have historically held the edge in the head-to-head encounters, boasting a significant advantage across 16 meetings. 

South Africa’s drought-breaking victory only came in February 2024, powered by Marizanne Kapp’s brilliant all-round performance of 75 runs and three for 12, culminating in a memorable 75-run win.

The Proteas Women replicated that success in their most recent meeting. Bosch herself delivered a Player of the Match performance during last year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup semi-final in Dubai, where her unbeaten 74 off 48 balls propelled South Africa to their second consecutive T20 World Cup final appearance.

When asked what it takes to overcome a team of Australia’s calibre on the world stage, Bosch emphasised the critical importance of discipline and executing the fundamentals.

Anneke Bosch. Photo: Cricinfo

“They are the best team in the world, and it’s really difficult to beat them. You have to do the basics really well. The team that does the basics better for longer and stays in control of the game for a longer period of time will end up being successful against them,

“They always put the other team under pressure, regardless of the situation. I think it’s just about doing the basics well and sticking to our skills and what we do well, applying ourselves and sticking to our game plans – then you’ll have the best chance.”

The play between South Africa and Australia is scheduled to commence at 11:30 in Indore.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg