The Proteas got off to a strong start in the final and led the encounter 15–12 after the first quarter.

In the second 15-minute period, the Roses managed to edge in front, taking a two-goal lead into half-time at 30–28.

In the second half, the hosts maintained their lead despite a determined fight by the South Africans, who had beaten them 61–59 a week earlier.

England vs. South Africa. Photo: Morgan Harlow

South Africa’s task in the third quarter was made significantly more challenging when Free State centre Refiloe Nketsa was sent off for dangerous play for four minutes. Despite this, South Africa continued to battle on.

Following the final, South African captain Khanyisa Chawane said they could hold their heads high. “I think today’s game was really amazing – we came out really hard in the first quarter, really working on all the things we said we were going to work on.

“It was really working for us. There were a few mistakes that we made, which brought England into the game, but a lot of things and external factors really influenced our game today. But I’m so proud of the girls for how we kept it together and showed that mental fortitude to keep on fighting until the very end.

“It wasn’t an easy game. England, as well, were really prepared. There’s a lot of things they did that forced us to make our own mistakes, which shows that they did their homework. But above that, the girls really worked hard.

“We worked hard on that court. We left everything out there, and that’s what’s important – to go out there and go home with no regrets, having played our hearts out and left everything on that court.”

Meanwhile, in the third-place playoff, Uganda stunned Malawi with a 50–45 win.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg