In a stunning turn of events at the T20 World Cup, Australia was eliminated in the semi-final after an emphatic eight-wicket defeat by South Africa in Dubai. The defending champions, aiming for an eighth final appearance, were knocked out as the Proteas chased down a modest target of 135 with 16 balls remaining.
Bosch and Wolvaardt Dominate in Run Chase
South Africa’s charge was led by Anneke Bosch, who played a sensational unbeaten knock of 74 from 48 balls. Captain Laura Wolvaardt chipped in with a composed 42, forming a match-defining 96-run partnership for the second wicket. Their dynamic display left the Australian bowlers helpless, as the Proteas cruised to the final.
Wolvaardt hailed the victory as “one of our biggest wins ever,” reflecting on the magnitude of their achievement in reaching back-to-back finals.
Australia’s Struggles with the Bat
Australia’s innings never truly gained momentum, ending at 134-5. They struggled to accelerate during the middle overs, with a lackluster run rate contributing to their downfall. Grace Harris and Georgia Wareham fell early in the powerplay, leaving the middle order to rebuild.
Beth Mooney anchored the innings with a steady 44 from 42 balls, but her cautious approach meant Australia was often behind the required tempo. Captain Tahlia McGrath also found herself bogged down, scoring 27 from 33 balls, further limiting the team’s ability to post a competitive total.
Late contributions from Ellyse Perry (31 from 23) and Phoebe Litchfield (16 from 9) offered a brief surge, but the total remained underwhelming on a pitch that heavily favored the chasing side.
South Africa’s bowling attack was precise and disciplined, restricting the Australian batting lineup. By taking early wickets and maintaining control throughout the innings, they ensured Australia never fully settled. Their smart bowling plans and field placements prevented the Australians from finding any rhythm, a key factor in their victory.
Looking Ahead to the Final
With this victory, South Africa has reached their second consecutive T20 World Cup final, a remarkable achievement for a team that continues to defy expectations.
They will face either New Zealand or West Indies, who contest the second semi-final in Sharjah. This final marks the first time in white-ball World Cup history that neither Australia nor England will feature in the final.
As the Proteas gear up for the final, the nation celebrates another milestone in what has been an extraordinary sporting journey for South Africa over the past 18 months.
