South African fast bowler Marizanne Kapp created a major milestone in women’s cricket history during the Women’s ODI World Cup semi-final against England in Guwahati. Kapp overtook former India pace legend Jhulan Goswami to become the highest wicket-taker in the tournament’s history, setting a new benchmark for consistency and match-winning impact on the global stage.
Kapp Sets a New Benchmark
Kapp reached the landmark when she claimed her 44th World Cup wicket, surpassing Goswami’s record of 43 wickets. The moment came in a high-pressure knockout match, where South Africa needed a strong performance to stay on course for their first-ever Women’s World Cup final. Kapp delivered with a five-wicket haul that halted England’s chase and kept South Africa in control.
The achievement reflects years of sustained excellence. Kapp has taken her 44 wickets in just 28 World Cup innings, showcasing a strike rate and influence that have shaped South Africa’s rise in women’s cricket.
The Record That Was Surpassed
Jhulan Goswami, one of the most respected names in the women’s game, held the previous record with 43 wickets across five World Cup editions. Goswami’s longevity and discipline at the international level earned her the reputation of being India’s pace spearhead for nearly two decades. Her record had stood as a benchmark for bowlers aiming to combine endurance with impact across world tournaments.
By crossing this mark, Kapp now stands at the top of the list featuring several of cricket’s most reliable bowlers, including Megan Schutt and Lyn Fullston, both tied on 39 wickets.
How the Record Was Achieved Against England
England entered the match facing pressure after South Africa put up 320 on the board, led by Laura Wolvaardt’s commanding century. Kapp made early inroads with the ball, removing Amy Jones and Heather Knight in the same spell. The early wickets forced England into a chase that never settled. Kapp later returned to dismiss Nat Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Dunkley and Charlie Dean, sealing the game’s momentum.
Her performance not only shaped the match but added weight to South Africa’s campaign, keeping their hopes of reaching the final alive.
Why the Milestone Matters
This record highlights a shift in the competitive balance of women’s cricket. For a long time, players from Australia and England dominated global records. Kapp’s rise places South Africa among the nations producing world-class match-winners who shape tournament outcomes.
It also strengthens her legacy as one of the most influential all-rounders of her generation — a player capable of changing a match with either discipline.
Most Wickets in Women’s ODI World Cup History
| Player | Wickets |
|---|---|
| Marizanne Kapp (South Africa) | 44* |
| Jhulan Goswami (India) | 43 |
| Lynette Ann Fullston (Australia) | 39 |
| Megan Schutt (Australia) | 39 |
Looking Ahead
The win over England confirmed South Africa’s place in the Women’s ODI World Cup final for the first time in their history. For years, the Proteas had reached the knockout stages but fell short at the decisive hurdle. This time, Kapp’s record-breaking spell and Wolvaardt’s commanding century lifted the side beyond that barrier. The team now moves into the final on November 2 with a chance to claim South Africa’s maiden Women’s World Cup title, marking a landmark moment for the nation’s cricketing journey.