The first semi-final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup ended in team South Africa defeating defending champions Australia in a surprising outcome.
Captain Laura and her band of women will now go up against the winner of second semi-final which is to be played between New Zealand and West Indies. Australia however has been knocked out of the championship.
Team SA won the toss and skipper Laura Wolvaardt chose to field first, which turned out to be a brilliant decision as Australia had a shaky start. They lost two wickets early on and took their time to rebuild from 18/2.
But Australian batter Beth Mooney teamed up with captain, Tahlia McGrath (27), and helped Australia build a respectable score. Phoebe Litchfield (16* from 9) and Ellyse Perry (31 from 23) also played their part in helping Australia strengthen their platform. The innings ended with Australia putting up 134 runs after losing five wickets on the board.
In the second innings South Africa showcased a spectacular performance that stunned the opposing team and spectators alike.
South Africa began their chase in a surprising fashion. opener Tazmin Brits’ bat rained boundaries. Tazmin was then bowled out by Annabel Sutherland.
However, team South Africa sailed ahead comfortably with Anneke Bosch teaming up with captain Laura to support the middle order.
Laura showcased a spectacular knock scoring 42 runs off 37 balls.
But it was Anneke who was the star of the show. The fiery batter hit nine boundaries in total and one superb six. She won the much-deserved Player of the Match award.
With the help of Anneke’s top-class performance, South Africa registered an eight-wicket win with 16 balls to spare.
