Both teams suffered defeats in their opening matches and will be desperate to get points on the board in what is already shaping up to be a crucial Pool Stage encounter. South Africa’s campaign got off to a disappointing start with a 65-run defeat to Australia at Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday, while Pakistan were beaten by 64 runs by India in Birmingham the following day.

South Africa will take confidence from their recent success against Pakistan, having won a T20 International series 2-1 on home soil earlier this year. However, Pakistan may hold a slight advantage in familiarity with conditions after already playing at Edgbaston during the tournament.

Aliya Riaz. Photo: Morgan Piek

With both teams looking to bounce back, there is plenty at stake. Beyond securing a first win, net run-rate could prove decisive later in the competition, making a strong all-round performance even more important.

Proteas wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta, who scored a career-best unbeaten 57 against Pakistan in the first One-Day International in Bloemfontein in February, acknowledged the pressure surrounding the fixture. However, she credited head coach Mandla Mashimbyi and the management team for keeping the squad focused and composed.

“Yes, luckily we've got an amazing coach who kind of thinks ahead for us,” said Jafta.

“If anything, he's just asked us to remain present.

“We all know that it is tournament cricket and anything can happen, but for us as a team, we want to focus on what we do well. No matter who the opposition is, we stick to our strengths, stay united and focus on our game plan on the day.”

While Pakistan captain Fatima Sana remains one of the team's biggest threats, Jafta stressed that South Africa are preparing for the entire side rather than focusing on one individual.

Fatima Sana. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I think it would be disrespectful to focus on just one player because they are a very good team,” she said.

“When you look at the captain, she leads from the front. Aliya Riaz has been there for a long time and the younger players coming through also impressed when they toured South Africa earlier this year.

“For us, it's about focusing on what we do well and always respecting the opposition.”

Jafta believes the Proteas have the quality and depth needed to secure a victory if they execute their plans effectively.

Laura Wolvaardt. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We always talk about captain Laura Wolvaardt giving us a strong start, and that's obviously important,” she said.

“But we've got a very long batting line-up and anyone can put up their hand on any given day.

“The same applies to our bowling. We always speak about Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp, but sometimes people forget about Ayabonga Khaka and the calmness she brings to the attack.

Muneeba Ali. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Fielding is going to take a collective effort. Our new fielding coach, Mduduzi Mbatha, has encouraged us to enjoy ourselves out there because that's the one opportunity where the whole team works together.

“It's about being aggressive in everything we do while keeping things simple.”

A win for South Africa would not only reignite their World Cup campaign but also provide valuable momentum heading into the remainder of the group stage.

The first ball between the Proteas Women and Pakistan at Edgbaston is scheduled for 19:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvdw