Annerie Dercksen’s Gritty Maiden 50 Lifts Proteas Women to 235 Against Sri Lanka

It was a determined and composed knock from Annerie Dercksen that helped the Proteas Women claw their way to a competitive 235/9 in their latest Women’s Tri-Series fixture against Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium on Friday.

Coming in at a tricky 120/5 in the 29th over, the 24-year-old right-hander kept her cool under pressure and steered South Africa out of danger with an unbeaten 61*—her maiden international half-century.

An innings of incredible class, impetus, and resilience from Annerie Dercksen ?.

A maiden ODI half century — and what a moment to deliver it ???. #AlwaysRising #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/bsZPxvR4Te

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) May 2, 2025

Dercksen took time to settle in on a turning pitch before launching a calculated counterattack. She struck three crisp boundaries and cleared the ropes for the only six in the innings, proving once again why she’s becoming a crucial all-rounder for the side.

She was ably supported by Chloe Tryon (35), with whom she shared a vital 62-run stand for the sixth wicket. Later, Nadine de Klerk chipped in with 17, helping to build a 32-run partnership that pushed the team beyond the 200-run mark.

Lara Goodall (46) and Sune Luus (31) also laid a solid foundation early on, but Sri Lanka’s spinners posed a tough challenge. Dewmi Vihanga (3/41) led the spin attack, while Inoka Ranaweera and Sugandika Kumari claimed one wicket each. Seamer Malki Madara stood out with figures of 4/50, mixing her pace to trouble the South African batters.

Now, all eyes will be on Ayabonga Khaka and Masabata Klaas as they lead South Africa’s bowling charge. The key for the Proteas will be to dismiss Sri Lanka’s in-form skipper Chamari Athapaththu early and apply pressure during the chase.

With Sri Lanka needing 236 runs to win, the second innings promises a thrilling contest in Colombo.