'Disappointed' Proteas insist World Cup semi-final loss 'doesn't define us'

Proteas skipper Sune Luus says that their Women's World Cup semi-final defeat against England doesn't define them after finishing off a stellar campaign in New Zealand.

South Africa was eliminated from the World Cup after England opener Danni Wyatt's stunning century set up a 137-run semi-final victory at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Wyatt's maiden World Cup century was aided by five dropped catches from the Proteas as she scored 129 off 125 balls (12 fours).

Proteas fast bowler Shabnim Ismail returned with figures of 3/46 as England posted an imposing 293/8 in their 50 overs.

South Africa got off to the worst possible start with current leading run-scorer Laura Wolvaardt departing for a duck as the out of form Lizelle Lee departed for 2.

Luus (21) put on a 36-run partnership with Lara Goodall (28), but the Proteas continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Mignon du Preez top-scored with 30 for South Africa but they were reeling at 110/7.

Spinner Sophie Ecclestone then produced the best bowling figures of the tournament with six for 36 as South Africa were bundled out for 156 in 38 overs. 

"We pride ourselves in our fielding and to not take those chances tonight, we are very disappointed in that," Luus told reporters after their loss.

"It's been a good campaign for us and this doesn't define us by the game we played tonight."

READ | World Cup exit 'breaks our hearts', says Proteas skipper Luus: 'Hard pill to swallow'

Since 2017, the Proteas have built a consistent and experienced starting XI and have displayed excellent cricket in the build-up and throughout the World Cup campaign.

South Africa suffered only two defeats in this entire World Cup and has shown great character in New Zealand.

Ismail agrees with Luus' defining