In a stunning performance, South Africa beat the mighty Australian team by eight wickets in the first semi-final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, held on Thursday (October 17) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Proteas secured their first-ever victory against Australia in a T20 World Cup, progressing to their maiden final in style.
After being asked to bat first, Australia posted a competitive 134/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Contributions from Beth Mooney (44), Ellyse Perry (31), Tahlia McGrath (27), and Phoebe Litchfield (16*) helped build the total, but the South African bowlers kept the pressure on. Ayabonga Khaka was the pick of the bowlers, scalping two wickets to restrict the Australian innings.
South Africa started steadily in response, with openers Tazmin Brits (15) and Laura Wolvaardt adding 25 runs for the first wicket. However, Australia pacer Annabel Sutherland struck in the fifth over, dismissing Brits to give her team hope. But that was the last success Australia would taste as Anneke Bosch, walking in at number 3, took control of the chase.
South Africa Rejoices After Historic Win Over Australia in T20 World Cup Semi-final
Bosch played a match-winning knock, smashing an unbeaten 74 off 48 deliveries, which included eight boundaries and a towering six. Her aggressive half-century changed the game’s momentum, and she found an ideal partner in Wolvaardt (42). The duo stitched together a 96-run partnership for the second wicket, guiding South Africa to victory. Bosch capped off the chase with a boundary in the 18th over, sealing the memorable win.
South Africa’s emphatic triumph against Australia has marked a historic moment for the team as they prepare for their first-ever T20 World Cup final.
