The Momentum Proteas have secured their place in the final of the ICC Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup! In a nail-biting semi-final, they managed to edge out the formidable England side by a mere six runs.
The South African women’s team were the underdogs for much of the match, but they managed to turn the tide in their favour at the perfect moment. The near-capacity crowd at Newlands Stadium also played a huge role in the team’s success, with every dot-ball being met with rapturous cheers.
Incredible innings from Wolvaardt and Brits
Captain Sune Luus won the toss and opted to bat first. Opening batters, Laura Wolvaard and Tazmin Brits, set a solid foundation, going at just over seven runs per over. Together, the two would notch up an impressive 96-run partnership over 14 overs.
The platform was set, and the two were ready to hit the accelerator. Unfortunately, Wolvaardt had to take a walk back to the dressing room for a well-played 53 (44 balls).
Two more quick wickets, that of Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk, signalled a tense atmosphere at Newlands. However, veteran Marizanne Kapp and captain Sune Luus steadied the ship with an unbeaten 19-run partnership off just 9 deliveries.
This helped South Africa to 164 for 4 in the allotted 20 overs, giving The Momentum Proteas a formidable total to defend.
A top bowling performance all-round
England’s chase got off to a flying start, thanks to some sloppy fielding from the Momentum Proteas. Two costly errors in the opening two overs resulted in eight free runs for the English, who quickly capitalized on the mistakes and began to find the boundary with greater frequency.
Fortunately, the South African side had wicket-takers in their midst. Shabnim Ismail took two crucial wickets in her second over, the second of which was a stunning catch from Brits at mid-wicket.
This marked the beginning of the end for England, as Khaka proceeded to take out the English batters one by one. She ended with an impressive 4/29 in four overs, ultimately leading her team to victory.
Kaapstad, jou lekker ding!
Big respect for the Capetonians who came out to support the Momentum Proteas in this T20 World Cup semi-final. They were right in the thick of the match. They felt every single delivery, cheered for every dot, and erupted with every wicket.
Their unwavering support helped this South African side to victory in the end!
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