BRISTOL, July 18:
England entered the final of ICC Women’s World Cup 2017 after beating South Africa in a thrilling contest by 2 wickets in the first semi-final, here today.
Chasing a target of 219 runs, England were in a spot of bother before they kept their nerves to win the match in an exciting contest.
The match changed hands more than once and in the end, it was England who won it. The first semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2017 saw some nail-biting cricket and severe emotions between England and South Africa as both teams battled for a spot in the final.
South Africa did well to take the match to the final over in which England needed three runs.
But as soon as Anya Shrubsole cracked a cut off the penultimate ball of the match, South African players shrank on the field with their hands on their heads. Left with tears in their eyes, the women looked on as the home team ran towards the two batswomen and cheered after making the final at home.
The home team chased down a target to 219 runs after losing eight wickets in a chase which they should have completed easily after the brilliant start and later a brisk 54-run innings from player-of-the-match Sarah Taylor.
Earlier, South Africa managed to score a decent total of 218 runs, courtesy-good contributions from du Preez (76) and Laura Wolvaardt (66). From England, Shrubsole, Sciver, Gunn and Knight shared one wicket apiece.
While, in reply, apart from Tailor’s magnificent contribution, 30 each from skipper Knight and Fran Wilsom, coupled with valuable 27 runs by Gunn helped England to script thrilling victory and seal berth in the finals.
From South Africa Ayabonga Khaka and Sune Luus took 2 wickets each while Ismail, Kapp and Daniel claimed one wicket each.
But the day belong to the lower, middle order batswomen of England, who held their nerves better when it mattered the most in pressure cookers scenario. (Agencies)
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