South Africa 277-4 (50 overs, Brits 107, Minny 73, Smith 45)
Netherlands 50 all out (41.4 overs, Kilowan 3-8)

A brilliant century from South African skipper Cri-Zelda Brits helped South Africa maintain their unbeaten run at the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier.

Brits, who became the first centurion at the tournament, batted for over three hours for her unbeaten 107 as South Africa defeated the Netherlands by 227 runs in their final group game.

And Brits admitted that her side is full of confidence ahead of their semi-final tomorrow against Ireland, with the winner of that match qualifying for the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2009.

“We wanted to put three in the bag and we’ve done that. I’m very happy that everybody chipped in” said Brits.

“We know there’s a challenge there for us and we know that to qualify we need to win the game. Tomorrow is more like a final for us.”

South Africa, who elected to bat after winning the toss, recovered well from the loss of Daleen Terblanche in the opening over of the game to post a formidable total of 277-4.

Brits, who became the fifth South African woman to score an ODI hundred, was well supported by an excellent innings of 73 by Annelie Minny, while Alicia Smith’s cameo innings of 45 from just 30 balls, including a huge six, was also outstanding.

And Brits admitted it was nice to finally get a century for her country.

“It’s been a long time coming. My coach has been waiting for me to score one for ages now so it’s nice to get one and hopefully I can get a couple more” she said.

In reply, the Netherlands lost early wickets and struggled to come to grips with a strong South African attack as they collapsed to 50 all out.

As for the Netherlands, skipper Helmien Rambaldo admitted that her side had faced a tough match but is full of hope ahead of tomorrow’s semi-final against Pakistan.

She said: “It’s a massive game. It’s our big focus and we’re hoping to do well. That’s the game that matters.”