Proteas finally down England

Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt (above) led from the front last night, as the hosts hit back against England by coasting to a six-wicket victory in the first women's ODI in Kimberley.

- Wesley Botton

After losing the T20 series 3-0 last week, the SA team displayed impressive form in the 50-over format to take a 1-0 advantage with two matches to play in the current ODI campaign.

Set a target of 187 runs to win, opening batter Wolvaardt laid a solid foundation, hitting her 33rd ODI half-century with a patient, composed knock of 59 not out off 114 deliveries (7x4's).

She was well supported by all-rounder Nadine de Klerk, who smashed 48 off just 28 balls, as they shared an unbroken 53-run partnership for the fifth wicket.