Sciver-Brunt leads superb England into World Cup final
England women's cricket team defeated South Africa by 40 runs in the T20 World Cup semi-final to reach the final against Australia.
England roared into Sunday's T20 World Cup final against Australia with a superb 40-run victory against South Africa at The Oval.
On a brilliant night under the lights in front of a jubilant crowd, England overcame early struggles – falling to 23-3 in the fourth over – thanks to a magnificent partnership between captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight. Sciver-Brunt, returning from a calf injury that threatened to rule her out of the tournament, hit an immaculate 75 from 47 balls. Knight made 58 from 47 as they shared a 133-run stand to lift England to 169-5.
England's fielding, long a weakness, was outstanding. Sophie Ecclestone took two brilliant catches, including one to dismiss Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt, breaking an opening stand of 43. Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean each took two wickets, while Danni Wyatt-Hodge ran out Sinalo Jafta with a direct hit.
South Africa's Anneke Brits scored 51 from 45, but they could only manage 129-8 in reply. England's bowlers strangled the run chase, with Freya Kemp conceding just 11 runs from three overs.
The victory means England, second favourites against their oldest rivals at Lord's, have a real shot at a first trophy since 2017. The match was watched by a record crowd of 21,128 – the largest for a women's game at The Oval, where England's women have still never lost.
