Lizelle Lee hit her maiden T20 century as South Africa posted 195-3 from their 20 overs in the Group B encounter at the Manuka Oval.

The total was one run higher than the record of 194-5 set by India against New Zealand at the 2018 event in the West Indies.

Chasing an improbable 196 for victory, tournament debutants Thailand were bowled out for 82.

Thailand had made a promising start with the ball as Dane van Niekerk departed for two, before Lee and Sune Luus steadied the ship and began taking the attack to the bowlers.

Lee scored 101 - 88 of which came from boundaries - before she was caught and bowled by Suleeporn Laomi, ending a partnership of 131.

Luus finished not out on 61 as South Africa set Thailand a colossal target.

Luus also starred with the ball, taking 3-15, while Shabnim Ismail recorded the best figures of 3-8.

In the other Group B match played today, England eased to a 42-run victory over Pakistan.

England made 158-7 batting first, captain Heather Knight top-scoring with 62 runs from 47 balls.

Pakistan never looked likely to chase down their target of 159 and were bowled out for 116 with two balls to spare.

Anya Shrubsole's 3-25 saw her become the leading wicket-taker in the tournament's history, while leg-spinner Sarah Glenn chipped in with 3-15.

South Africa remain top of Group B and are in pole position to qualify for the semi-finals, with England lying in second place.