South Africa secured a comfortable win over Australia in the first semi-final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024, held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Proteas won by eight wickets, booking their spot in the final.

Chasing a target of 135 runs, South Africa cruised to victory with 16 balls to spare, losing just two wickets. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led the charge, scoring 42 runs off 37 balls, including three fours and a six. She was dismissed towards the end, but her contribution, along with a standout performance from Anneke Bosch, set the tone for the win.

Bosch was the star of the match, hitting an impressive 74 off 48 deliveries, with eight fours and one six. Her innings played a crucial role in South Africa’s chase. Both Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, who scored 15 off 15 balls, were dismissed by Australia’s Annabel Sutherland.

Earlier, Australia, without their regular captain Alyssa Healy, struggled to build momentum after being invited to bat first. They lost Grace Harris on the first ball of the match to Ayabonga Khaka, putting the team under early pressure.

Beth Mooney held the innings together with a solid 44 off 42 balls, forming small partnerships with Georgia Wareham (5) and stand-in captain Tahlia McGrath (27 off 33). However, her run-out by Marizanne Kapp halted Australia’s progress.

Ellyse Perry and Phoebe Litchfield then steadied the innings, with Perry scoring a valuable 39 not out. Despite her efforts, Australia could only manage 134/5 in their 20 overs.

For South Africa, Khaka, Kapp, and Nonkululeko Mlaba each took a wicket, helping restrict Australia to a below-par total.

With this win, South Africa advances to the final, keeping their hopes of lifting the Women's T20 World Cup alive.