 A resolute South Africa came up with a clinical performance to shock mighty Australia by eight wickets and enter the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup here on Thursday.
Put in to bat first, Australia could only manage to form a modest total of 134/5 as Beth Mooney top-scored with a 42-ball 44 in the first semifinal while Ellyse Perry (31) and skipper Tahlia Mcgrath (27) also played valiant cameos.
Ayabonga Khaka (2/24) was the most successful bowler for South Africa, even as others chipped in nicely.
South Africa completed the task with 16 balls to spare and Anneke Bosch led the way with a scintillating knock of 74 not out in 48 balls. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt contributed a 37-ball 42 at the top of the order.
The Australian bowlers weren’t able to cause much trouble as they were only able to pick up 2 wickets in 17.2 overs.
With this huge victory, South Africa took their revenge for the loss in the last summit clash at home, when Australia won by 19 runs to lift their sixth title. They will now be facing either New Zealand or West Indies in the final, which is scheduled to be held on October 20, Sunday.
