Gqeberha

South Africa sealed the three-match women’s ODI series against Ireland with a commanding 74-run victory in a high-scoring contest here on Tuesday, as both teams shattered batting records.

The hosts piled up their highest-ever total in women’s ODIs, posting 375 for six — the 13th-highest score in the format’s history — with skipper Laura Wolvaardt leading from the front with a sublime 124. She was well supported by Sune Luus (114) and returning all-rounder Dane van Niekerk, who struck a fluent 88.

In reply, Ireland responded with their strongest-ever batting effort against South Africa, crossing the 300-run mark for just the fifth time in their ODI history. Orla Prendergast narrowly missed out on a century with a brilliant 97, while Amy Hunter chipped in with 64, but the visitors were eventually restricted to 301, falling short by 74 runs.

Right-arm seamer Leah Jones was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming three wickets.

The win gave South Africa an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with one match remaining, to be played in Johannesburg on Friday.

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Ireland captain Gaby Lewis said her side would take encouragement from their improved performances across the tour despite the defeat.