SA-W vs IRE-W, 1st T20I, Match Prediction: Who will win between South Africa and Ireland?

The three-match T20I series between South Africa Women and Ireland Women begins with the first match at Newlands, Cape Town. The series is a crucial start for South Africa, who are fresh from their impressive run to the ICC Women’s World Cup final, and marks the return of key players like Dane van Niekerk to the squad. Ireland Women enter the series in strong form, having won 11 of their 12 T20I matches this year, but face a tough challenge against the dominant Proteas Women on home soil. This match is a test of South Africa’s deep all-round strength against Ireland’s recent momentum.

SA-W vs IRE-W, 1st T20I: Match Details

Newlands, Cape Town Pitch Report

The Newlands wicket in Cape Town generally offers a decent batting surface, with the average first innings score in women’s T20Is hovering around 151-164. The surface is known for its pace and bounce, which helps the fast bowlers, particularly with the new ball. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to offer less pace, which brings the spinners into play during the middle overs. The venue’s statistics indicate a slight preference for the team bowling first, as 21 out of 38 matches have been won by the chasing side. Therefore, the captain winning the toss is expected to opt to bowl first to take advantage of the conditions under lights.

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South Africa Women vs Ireland Women: Team dynamics and key players

South Africa Women: The Proteas are heavy favorites, benefiting from a full-strength squad, including the return of all-rounder Dane van Niekerk and the presence of world-class players like Marizanne Kapp and captain , who is in excellent batting form. Their bowling is potent, featuring the experienced Ayabonga Khaka and the spinning threat of Nonkululeko Mlaba. Playing at home, their strength in depth and high-level experience should prove too much for the visitors.

Ireland Women: Ireland is riding a fantastic streak of victories in 2025, primarily due to the brilliant form of their top-order batters, captain and Amy Hunter, who have been outstanding in run-scoring. All-rounder Laura Delany and pacer Arlene Kelly lead their bowling attack, which has been successful in the T20 World Cup European Qualifiers. For Ireland to spring an upset, their star batters must get them off to an explosive start and their bowlers must manage to contain South Africa’s deep batting line-up.

SA-W vs IRE-W, 1st T20I: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• South Africa Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Ireland Women’s powerplay score: 35-45
• Ireland Women’s total score: 125-145

Case 2:

• Ireland Women wins the toss and bats first
• South Africa Women’s powerplay score: 45-55
• South Africa Women’s total score: 155-175

Match result: South Africa Women to win the contest 

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