Discover how Australia’s fierce spinners triggered a massive batting collapse for the West Indies team.
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Cruising to the Final
If you were hoping to witness a tense thriller at The Oval, the Australian Women’s cricket team had different plans. They simply and effortlessly defeated the West Indies in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup.
Chasing down 126 proved to be no problem for Australia’s batters either, as they cruised to an eight-wicket win in a comfortable seven-over victory with plenty of time to spare. Their place in the World Cup final is now secured, as Australia prepare for their eighth final in this year’s tournament.
Pre-Game Drama
Before the toss, West Indies superstar Deandra Dottin was forced to leave the field due to a medical emergency. She had to be stretcher off the pitch, much to the dismay of the fans and West Indies’ team. Dottin’s condition was unknown for around thirty minutes, with her availability for the game in serious doubt.
Overcoming Adversity
In one of the most surprising displays of grit and determination, Dottin made a brave return to the crease and batted at number eight. After a shaky start to her innings, the West Indies’ number one batter hit a quick-fire 26 from 16 balls with four fours.
She managed to contribute a vital run to West Indies’ total, which could’ve been much more had her scary medical emergency not occurred earlier in the day.
Glimmer of Hope
It wasn’t all bad news for the Windies as they started their chase against Australia. Hayley Matthews was trying her hardest to rediscover the form which has eluded her throughout this tournament. She made a cautious start to her innings before hitting two consecutive boundaries and getting to 30.
With West Indies struggling to score consistently during the powerplay, Matthews was right there to help her team get the innings going. However, in the shortest format of the game, it only takes a matter of time before the momentum switches.
The 17-Ball Collapse
West Indies’ hopes of chasing down 126 were severely dealt a blow when Georgia Wareham sent Matthews back to the pavilion with a shocking lbw decision, leaving the West Indies’ coach in utter disbelief. From there, a batting collapse began which saw Dottin and her teammates lose four wickets for 12 runs in the space of 17 balls.
Lethal Spin Attack
Australia’s spin-bowling attack was a complete nightmare for West Indies’ batters. Ashleigh Gardner was simply unplayable as she gave away nothing and picked up two wickets for 13 runs.
Wareham and Sophie Molineux supported Gardner well, both taking two wickets apiece. In fact, both spinners were so good that the West Indies’ batters were unable to score freely or apply any pressure.
Setback at The Oval
When Australia came out to face the West Indies’ bowling attack, they faced a scare of their own. Ellyse Perry, who has been in brilliant form this series, had to retire hurt due to a quad injury.
This was a major setback to Australia’s chase, especially considering their poor depth in their batting line-up. Thankfully, they have a fearsome middle order in their line-up which will see them through this crucial tie.
Unflappable Mooney Shines
Mooney displayed absolute composure at the crease in a high-stakes encounter. She hit 61 from 36 deliveries to rescue Australia from an early scare and reach the World Cup final.
Her unbeaten knock equalled Suzie Bates’ record for the most half-centuries in women’s T20 World Cup history. Mooney simply looked unfazed by the tense situation, hitting the ball beautifully and making light work of a crucial run chase.
Ashleigh Gardner Saves the Day
Gardner was sensational with the bat as well, whacking 35 not out from 20 deliveries. The fiery all-rounder hit the winning six to bring the Aussie fans to their feet, sealing a comfortable victory. She combined well with Mooney at the crease, as Australia’s batters put on an unbeaten partnership of 63.
This allowed Australia to steadily increase their lead over the Windies, all but eliminating any hopes of a West Indies comeback.
Looking Ahead
Their World Cup adventure continues for Australia, as they make their way to the final for an unprecedented eighth time. Having remained undefeated throughout the tournament, the Aussies will look to bring home the cup once again.
Whether it’s their batting or their spin-bowling attack, Australia has the firepower to take down any team on the planet in a high-stakes encounter.
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