In a stunning semi-final showdown, South Africa delivered a bold statement by knocking out the six-time champions, Australia. For the first time since 2010, Australia will not feature in the final, signaling a seismic shift in the tournament’s landscape.
After winning the toss, South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt chose to bowl first. Australia managed a total of 134, which initially seemed competitive on a slow and low pitch. Their innings gained momentum in the final five overs, adding 48 crucial runs to provide the late boost.
The Aussies were off to a shaky start, losing Grace Harris (3 off 5) and Georgia Wareham (5 off 9) cheaply. However, Beth Mooney (44 off 42) and captain Tahlia McGrath (27 off 33) steadied the ship with a crucial fifty-run stand. Although spin made scoring difficult, Mooney and McGrath laid a solid foundation. Late cameos from Ellyse Perry (31 off 23) and Phoebe Litchfield (16* off 3) helped push Australia to a competitive total. Ayabonga Khaka was the standout bowler for South Africa, with figures of 2 for 24.
In response, South Africa produced a masterclass in chasing that left Australia shell-shocked. With 16 balls to spare, they comfortably overhauled the target of 135, marking one of the most dominant performances against Australia. Laura Wolvaardt (42 off 37) and Tazmin Brits (15 off 15) provided a solid start, but it was Anneke Bosch who stole the show.
Bosch’s breathtaking knock of 74* off 48 balls not only guided South Africa home but also dismantled the Australian bowling attack with ease. Her aggressive stroke play, paired with Wolvaardt’s assured presence, left Australia with no room for a comeback. Annabel Sutherland was the only Australian bowler to make an impact, finishing with figures of 2 for 26.
Bosch’s match-winning performance rightfully earned her the Player of the Match award, with fans singing her praises on social media platform “X” (formerly known as Twitter). The South African bowlers, along with captain Wolvaardt, also received widespread acclaim for their clinical execution that ensured Australia’s dominance came to an abrupt halt.
Congratulations team RSA, the way you outlined Aussies commendable 🔥🔥🔥❤️
#AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/rx2ewpF9IM
— Abhyu🇮🇳 (@groggyjim) October 17, 2024
HISTORY HAS BEEN WRITTEN.
– South Africa have knocked out Australia in the Semis Final, the first Women’s T20WC Final without Australia in 15 years. 🤯
— JassPreet (@JassPreet96) October 17, 2024
The best scenes out there 🔥
— Naveed Raza (@NaveedRaza777) October 17, 2024
“A historic shift: the Women’s T20 World Cup final breaks tradition as Australia steps aside after 15 years.”
— Aki Shaheen (@AkbarK55) October 17, 2024
What an innings one of the best you can see in such a crucial match in Semifinals pic.twitter.com/03Wk9qDIhv
— Mangleshwar Yadav (@CrickTak) October 17, 2024
Anneke Bosch’s explosive half-century seals her as the deserving POTM in South Africa’s stunning semi final win over Australia!
— BabarAzamfans (@babarazam0111) October 17, 2024
Their ability to pull off an upset against Australia, especially in such a high-stakes match, speaks volumes about their skill, resilience, and teamwork. A dramatic run chase often creates unforgettable moments in cricket, and this win will surely be remembered by fans.
— Somdutt Yadav (@Somdutt995311) October 17, 2024
Still in awe of the one-sidedness of this win by South Africa. Like Australia was never in the game 🔥🔥#AUSvSA
— PouLaMi (@Crictopher17) October 17, 2024
Loves all things female cricket