The stage is set for New Zealand and South Africa Women to face off in the 2025 ODI World Cup at Holkar Stadium, Indore. This preview covers everything from team line-ups and head-to-head records to pitch conditions and weather updates.
Match Details and Venue Information
Match Date & Time
- Date: Monday, 6 October 2025
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Holkar Cricket Stadium Overview
Holkar Cricket Stadium, established in 1990, is a prominent venue located on Race Course Road in Indore. With a seating capacity of approximately 30,000, it stands as one of the larger stadiums in India. The stadium is renowned for its compact dimensions, with square boundaries measuring around 56 meters, making it conducive to high-scoring matches.
The ground has hosted several international fixtures, including the first-ever Test match in Indore between India and New Zealand in 2016. Its state-of-the-art facilities and enthusiastic crowd make it a favorite among players and fans alike.
Stadium Features
Seating Capacity: 30,000
Floodlights: Equipped for night matches
Stand Configuration: Multi-tiered stands with bucket and bench seating.
Notable Records: Hosted Virender Sehwag’s record-breaking 219 in an ODI against the West Indies in 2011.
Weather Forecast
The weather in Indore on match day is expected to be mostly sunny, with temperatures ranging between 21°C and 29°C. Humidity levels will be around 77%, and winds are likely to blow at 13 km/h. With minimal chances of rain, conditions should be ideal for an uninterrupted match
Head-to-Head Stats Between New Zealand and South Africa Women
Overall Record
- Total Matches Played: 20
- New Zealand Wins: 12
- South Africa Wins: 8
ICC Women’s World Cup Encounters
- Total World Cup Matches: 4
- New Zealand Wins: 3
- South Africa Wins: 1
In the prestigious World Cup setting, New Zealand has been dominant, winning 3 out of 4 matches against South Africa.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
- South Africa Wins: 4
- New Zealand Wins: 1
In recent encounters, South Africa has had the upper hand, winning 4 of the last 5 matches against New Zealand.
Key Batting Performers
- Suzie Bates (NZ): 425 runs in 15 innings at an average of 30.35.
- Amy Satterthwaite (NZ): 422 runs in 10 innings at an average of 52.75.
- Laura Wolvaardt (SA): Consistent top-order batter for South Africa.
- Marizanne Kapp (SA): All-rounder contributing with both bat and ball.
Team Squads for New Zealand and South Africa Women
Under the leadership of captain Sophie Devine, New Zealand has selected a balanced squad for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. The team combines seasoned campaigners with emerging talents, aiming for a strong performance in the tournament.
Batters
- Suzie Bates
- Maddy Green
- Georgia Plimmer
Wicketkeepers
- Izzy Gaze
- Polly Inglis
- Bella James
All-Rounders
- Sophie Devine (c)
- Brooke Halliday
- Amelia Kerr
- Hannah Rowe (replaced Flora Devonshire due to injury)
Spin Bowlers
- Eden Carson
- Amelia Kerr
Pace Bowlers
- Bree Illing
- Jess Kerr
- Rosemary Mair
- Lea Tahuhu
- Hannah Rowe (also an all-rounder)
🇿🇦 South Africa Women’s Squad (Proteas)
Led by captain Laura Wolvaardt, South Africa’s squad for the 2025 World Cup showcases a blend of experienced players and promising newcomers, aiming to make a significant impact in the tournament.
Batters
- Tazmin Brits
- Anneke Bosch
- Chloe Tryon
- Sune Luus
- Nadine de Klerk
- Laura Wolvaardt (c)
Wicketkeepers
- Sinalo Jafta
All-Rounders
- Marizanne Kapp
- Ayabonga Khaka
- Masabata Klaas
- Tumi Sekhukhune
- Nondumiso Shangase
- Karabo Meso
Holkar Stadium Pitch Report – Indore
The Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore is renowned for its batting-friendly pitches, offering a true bounce and quick outfield that favor stroke play. The ground has hosted several high-scoring One Day Internationals, with an average first-innings score of 331 and a second-innings average of 260.
Pitch Characteristics
Surface Composition: The pitch is primarily made of black soil, providing even bounce and minimal seam movement, making it ideal for batsmen.
Bounce & Pace: The wicket offers consistent bounce and pace, allowing batters to play their shots confidently.
Spin Conditions: While the pitch is favorable for batting, spinners may find some assistance as the game progresses, especially in the latter stages of the innings.
Bowling Considerations
Pace Bowlers: Fast bowlers may struggle to extract significant movement without the aid of swing, as the pitch offers minimal seam movement.
Spinners: Spinners could find some grip and turn as the match advances, but they need to be patient and consistent to capitalize on these conditions.
Match Strategy
Batting First: Teams winning the toss may opt to bat first, aiming to post a substantial total, as the pitch generally supports high scores.
Chasing Targets: While chasing is possible, the pressure of a high target can be daunting, and dew in the evening could affect the ball’s behavior.
Read More: Longest Six in Women’s Cricket
Key Players to Watch
New Zealand Women
- Sophie Devine (Captain & All-Rounder) – The backbone of the team, Sophie can change the game with both bat and ball. Her recent performances have been consistent, and she is known for her ability to anchor innings under pressure.
- Amelia Kerr (All-Rounder/Spin Bowler) – A key player with the ability to bowl economically and score quick runs lower down the order. Her spin could trouble South African batters on the Holkar Stadium pitch.
- Suzie Bates (Top-Order Batter) – Experienced and reliable, Suzie has a knack for building solid partnerships and accelerating the scoring rate when needed.
South Africa Women
Laura Wolvaardt (Captain & Top-Order Batter) – The leader and top scorer, Laura is known for her elegant stroke play and consistency in ODIs.
Marizanne Kapp (All-Rounder) – A dangerous all-rounder who can strike quick runs and bowl crucial overs. She’s pivotal for South Africa’s chances in both departments.
Chloe Tryon (Middle-Order Batter & Part-Time Bowler) – Known for finishing games and aggressive batting in the death overs, Chloe can change the course of the match quickly.
Final Words
The upcoming New Zealand vs South Africa Women’s ODI 2025 at Holkar Stadium, Indore promises to be an exciting clash filled with thrilling moments. With both teams bringing a mix of experience and young talent, fans can expect competitive cricket and standout performances from key players. From the batting-friendly pitch to favorable weather conditions, everything points to a high-quality contest. Stay tuned for an action-packed match as these two cricketing giants battle it out in the Women’s World Cup 2025!
