Proteas top order a World Cup concern? 'We won't overanalyse too much'

The Proteas are two from two at the Cricket World Cup in New Zealand, with Friday's thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan the next positive step on their journey to the semi-finals.

There are tougher fixtures ahead, though, with contests against England, New Zealand, Australia, West Indies and India to come. 

Friday's Pakistan clash went down to the wire, with Shabnim Ismail called on to bowl a superb final over to get her side over the line. 

It was far from a clinical performance from the South Africans, who were sloppy in the field and missed numerous runout opportunities that could have made the game a lot safer a lot earlier. 

However, of more concern for South African fans will be the struggles at the top order. 

Against both Bangladesh and Pakistan, the Proteas have been unable to get off to brisk starts, instead of eating up dot balls and losing wickets. 

They were 69/3 after 20 overs against Bangladesh, while they slipped to 21/2 against Pakistan on Friday. 

Opener Laura Wolvaardt, who made 41 in the tournament opener, was in superb touch again on Friday, where her 75 (91) went a long way towards getting the Proteas to 223/9 for their 50 overs. 

This game also saw Lizelle Lee return to the top of the order, but she was out for just 7 while Tazmin Brits has struggled in New Zealand with scores of 8 (24) and 2 (18) to her name so far. 

Mignon du Preez at No 5, meanwhile, has posted scores of 18 and 0. 

Speaking after the Pakistan win, Wolvaardt insisted that while the intensity of the batting in the top order was an area to highlight before their next fixture, there was no need for alarm yet. 

"It's only been two games," said Wolvaardt.

"I think it's just a matter of time. I think the top six are all hitting it really well