England are through to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final for the first time in eight years after an impressive 40-run victory over South Africa at The Kia Oval.
Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt marked her return from injury by top-scoring with 75 from just 47 deliveries and put on a 133-run fourth-wicket stand with Heather Knight (58), as England rallied from 23-3 to post 169-5 after losing the toss and batting first.
South Africa saw wickets fall regularly after Laura Wolvaardt was brilliantly caught by Sophie Ecclestone off Linsey Smith to end a 43-run opening stand, with England’s economic bowling and strong fielding in the middle overs putting the hosts firmly on top.
Tazmin Brits’ – departure immediately after completing her half-century – all-but ended South Africa’s hopes, as Lauren Bell (2-28) and Charlie Dean (3-31) helped limit the Proteas to 129-8.
The hosts will now face six-time T20 world champions Australia at Lord’s in Sunday’s final, where England will be looking to win the trophy for the first time since claiming the inaugural edition – also on home soil – in 2009.
Lauren Bell (left) and Nat Sciver-Brunt (right) celebrate England reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final
More to follow…
What’s next?
England take on Australia in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on Sunday at Lord’s, with coverage live from 2pm on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Mix (3.30pm).
Everyone can stream the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup live for FREE – and without a subscription – on the Sky Sports App. All you have to do is download the latest version of the Sky Sports App onto your phone or tablet and log in.
Download the Sky Sports App on: iPhone & iPad or Android. Watch every ball of the Women’s T20 World Cup exclusively live on Sky Sports and NOW.
