South Africa delivered a stunning performance to knock Australia out of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the first semi-final held in Dubai, securing an eight-wicket victory. Chasing a target of 135, South Africa achieved the win with 16 balls remaining, marking a significant upset and preventing Australia from reaching their eighth final appearance.
Bosch and Wolvaardt Anchor the Chase
The win was largely shaped by Anneke Bosch’s unbeaten 74 off 48 balls, supported by captain Laura Wolvaardt’s crucial 42. Their 96-run second-wicket partnership ensured a smooth chase, leaving the Australian team struggling to find a breakthrough. Bosch, in particular, stood out by hitting eight boundaries and a six, recording her fifth WT20I fifty. This match-winning effort came after modest performances earlier in the tournament, with her previous best score being just 25.
Australia’s Batting Struggles
Australia, known for their dominance in T20 cricket, failed to build momentum throughout their innings. Although opener Beth Mooney managed 44 from 42 balls, the team suffered from key dismissals, with early wickets including Grace Harris and Georgia Wareham. Despite Australia’s efforts to stabilize their innings, their scoring rate remained sluggish in the middle overs, leading to a modest total of 134/5.
Confident Start by South Africa
South Africa’s pursuit of 135 began confidently, with a solid powerplay score of 43/1, surpassing Australia’s 35/2 at the same stage. The Proteas remained composed throughout their chase, with Bosch and Wolvaardt ensuring no further setbacks after the early dismissal of Tazmin Brits. Their calculated approach allowed them to reach the target comfortably, demonstrating poise and intent.
Australia’s Winning Streak Ends
This victory not only secured South Africa’s spot in the final but also ended Australia’s 15-match winning streak in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Australia’s last defeat in this format also came at the hands of South Africa in January 2020 in Canberra. With this semi-final loss, Australia’s dominance in the tournament was halted, marking the first final without Australia or England in any white-ball format.
South Africa Sets Records
South Africa’s achievement in Dubai marked their highest successful chase in the Women’s T20 World Cup, surpassing their previous best of 124 runs against England in 2020. The 96-run stand between Bosch and Wolvaardt also became the fourth-highest partnership against Australia in the tournament’s history. Furthermore, Bosch’s unbeaten 74 now ranks as the third-highest individual score by a South African player in T20 World Cup matches, following Lizelle Lee’s 101 and Dane van Niekerk’s unbeaten 90.
Final Awaits New Champions
With South Africa through to the final, the tournament is guaranteed a new champion. The second semi-final between New Zealand and West Indies in Sharjah will determine their opponent. Regardless of the outcome, the upcoming final will be historic, featuring neither Australia nor England—two powerhouses that have dominated women’s cricket for years.
South Africa’s semi-final win symbolizes a breakthrough moment, reflecting both their growing stature in international women’s cricket and the evolving competitive landscape of the sport. The Proteas will now look to capitalize on this momentum and aim for their first-ever T20 World Cup title.