South Africa delivered a stellar performance to knock out Australia with a commanding eight-wicket win in the Women's T20 World Cup semi-final, held at the Dubai International Stadium. With the vibrant sounds of the papare band in the background, South Africa's collective bowling and an outstanding 96-run partnership between Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch paved the way for a memorable victory. This result ended Australia's streak of seven consecutive finals in the competition.
After opting to bowl, South Africa restricted Australia to 134-5. Australia, missing key players like Alyssa Healy and dealing with Meg Lanning's recent retirement, struggled against South Africa's disciplined attack. Despite a late surge, Australia couldn’t build momentum, as Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka struck early in the powerplay. Khaka dismissed Grace Harris with her first ball, while Kapp removed Georgia Wareham after a successful DRS appeal. Australia managed only 35-2 in the first six overs, their lowest in this tournament, setting a challenging stage.
Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath, often known as the "McMooney" duo for their rescue acts, attempted to stabilise the innings with a 50-run partnership. However, Mooney’s 44 off 42 was cut short by a brilliant run-out from Kapp, while McGrath fell for 24. Australia finished with 31 runs from the last three overs, courtesy of Ellyse Perry and Phoebe Litchfield, but the total proved inadequate.
South Africa’s chase mirrored Australia's cautious start, but with more aggression. Tazmin Brits attacked early, smashing a six off Ashleigh Gardner. After Brits was bowled by Sutherland for 15, Wolvaardt and Bosch took charge. The pair added quick runs, with Bosch hitting a flurry of boundaries and bringing up her half-century. Though Wolvaardt departed with 14 runs still needed, Bosch carried South Africa home, finishing unbeaten on 74, her highest T20I score.
With this emphatic win, South Africa advanced to their second consecutive T20 World Cup final, making a strong statement in the tournament.