by Anneke Bosch hit a superb unbeaten score of 74 as South Africa edged past defending champions Australia with an eight-wicket win to reach the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup.
Despite opener Beth Mooney scoring 44, Australia’s total of 134 for five on a seemingly slow Dubai pitch always looked within reach as South Africa looked to make up for defeat in the 2023 final on home soil against the same opponents.
Tazmin Brits fell in the powerplay for 15, but Bosch and Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt, who scored a quick 42 including a huge six over deep midwicket, soon won the game against Australia – winners of six of the eight previous editions of this tournament.
Bosch led the attack as she smashed eight boundaries in her fine 48-ball innings, helping South Africa secure a memorable win with 16 balls remaining. Annabel Sutherland picked up the two wickets.
After Australia – who have won the last three T20 World Cups – were brought in to bat, opener Grace Harris (three) and then Georgia Wareham (five) were both out in the first three overs before Mooney and stand-in captain Tahlia McGrath (27) steadied the innings with a 50-run partnership.
Mooney was thrown out of the game in the 17th after a direct hit from Marizanne Kapp’s throw at the striker’s end – after the Australian opener dived back into the crease the wrong way with her stick.
Phoebe Litchfield’s unbeaten 16 and Ellyse Perry’s 31 before being caught on the last throw took Australia to 134 for five. Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the South African bowlers with two for 24.
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In Friday’s second semi-final in Sharjah, New Zealand will face the West Indies, who beat England in their final group game to send Heather Knight’s side home.
