This is a heavyweight blockbuster in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 that carries a massive psychological backstory, recreating the iconic final from the 2023 edition. Australia walks out as the gold standard of world cricket, boasting a lineup so deep that world-class match-winners routinely find themselves batting down at number eight. They are ruthless, efficient, and deeply accustomed to the pressure of the big stage. South Africa, however, no longer carry the scars of old heartbreaks; they are a battle-hardened, physically imposing side powered by a core of world-class fast bowlers and destructive top-order batters who can take the game away from any bowling attack in a matter of a few overs.
Squads:
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Sune Luus, Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke, Chloe Tryon, Sinalo Jafta (WK), Ayabonga Khaka, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Dane van Niekerk, Shabnim Ismail, Nadine de Klerk, Karabo Meso
Australia Women’s Cricket Team
Beth Mooney (WK), Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Tahlia McGrath, Nicola Carey, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux (C), Alana King, Lucy Hamilton, Megan Schutt, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Ashleigh Gardner, Annabel Sutherland
Players to watch out:
Beth Mooney
Beth Mooney has established herself as an elite top-order force for Australia, accumulating 3545 runs across 118 T20I matches. Her incredible consistency shines through a remarkable batting average of 41.22, backed by 28 half-centuries and 2 brilliant hundreds, with a career-best score of 117. A highly dependable presence at the crease who scores quickly, she boasts an impressive strike rate of 125.54 and has anchored the side through 26 unbeaten innings.
Megan Schutt
Megan Schutt serves as the spearhead of Australia’s bowling attack, bringing immense experience from her 125 T20I appearances. She is a relentless wicket-taking threat, claiming 152 wickets at a phenomenal career average of 17.78 and a superb economy rate of 6.4. Her tactical brilliance and ability to dismantle top orders are highlighted by four 4-wicket hauls and a sensational best of 5 for 15, making her an absolute force in any phase of the game.
Laura Wolvaardt
Laura Wolvaardt has developed into a formidable anchor and leader for South Africa, racking up 2764 runs across 98 T20I appearances. Displaying magnificent technical control, she maintains a stellar batting average of 38.93 alongside a sharp strike rate of 121.98. Her knack for playing massive innings is clear from her 16 fifties and 3 centuries, highlighted by an explosive career-best score of 115.
Nonkululeko Mlaba
Nonkululeko Mlaba provides South Africa with elite tactical control and breakthrough potential, featuring prominently across 77 T20I fixtures. As a frontline bowler, she has picked up 72 wickets at a solid average of 22.83, frustrating batters with a disciplined economy rate of 6.44. Her ability to stifle the opposition’s scoring rate while consistently chipping away at partnerships is highlighted by a career-best bowling performance of 4 for 29.
Pitch:
The pitch at Manchester is known for being one of the quickest in England, offering genuine pace and carry early on. However, because the square is laid out in a unique north-south direction, it tends to take plenty of spin as the match progresses, making it a dream for wrist-spinners. It generally provides a very fair contest between bat and ball.
Weather:
The conditions in Manchester, United Kingdom, are likely to be overcast. Expect light rain during the day with a high temperature of 16°C and a low of 11°C.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Laura Wolvaardt, Sune Luus, Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Tahlia McGrath, Alana King, Megan Schutt, Ashleigh Gardner
Match Details:
Date – June 13, 2026
Time – 7:00 PM IST
Venue – Emirates Old Trafford, England
Broadcast – Star Sports Network, Jio HotStar
Click here for broadcasting options in your region.
Loves all things female cricket