Ireland felt the full force of Laura Wolvaardt’s bat in Cape Town on Friday as the South African captain scorched to 115 not out from 56 balls and led her side to a crushing 105-run victory in the first of three T20 internationals.

Wolvaardt, who was voted player of the tournament at the recent ICC World Cup, arrived at the crease after Jane Maguire had made an early breakthrough for the Girls in Green, and dominated an innings that closed on 220-2.

Any small hope Ireland had of mounting a challenge disappeared as both Amy Hunter and Orla Prendergast fell in the first over of the reply and despite a gutsy 30 from skipper Gaby Lewis her side were beaten well before they were bowled out for 115.

The one highlight for Ireland, as they prepare to meet the World Cup runners-up again tomorrow, was the return of Aimee Maguire after her suspension for a suspect bowling action. The Hills spinner conceded 36 runs from her four overs.