SA Cricketers Get Emotional After Historic Win Against Australia To Enter T20 World Cup 2024 Final - Watch
South African players get emotional after beating Australia [Source: T20worldcup/Instagram]
South Africa’s women’s cricket team made headlines on October 17, 2024, by defeating Australia in the semi-final of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. This victory was particularly emotional, as it avenged their 2023 World Cup final loss against the same opponents. The 8-wicket win not only knocked out the six-time champions but also gave South Africa a shot at their first-ever ICC title.
In a heartwarming video shared by the International Cricket Council (ICC), several South African players were seen in tears, overwhelmed with emotion after securing a spot in the final.
The South African team pulled off a major upset, beating Australia for the first time in T20 World Cup history. This win also ended Australia’s 15-match unbeaten streak in the tournament. Playing at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, South Africa restricted Australia to 134/5 after electing to field first.
Australia’s batting saw some resistance from Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath, who stitched together a 50-run partnership. Mooney scored 44 off 42 balls but was run out at a crucial stage. Ellyse Perry gave Australia a late boost with her quickfire 31 off 23 deliveries. Ayobonga Khaka led South Africa’s bowling attack with figures of 2/24, while Nonkululeko Mlaba and Marizanne Kapp picked up a wicket each.
South Africa Stun Australia
South Africa’s chase started cautiously, scoring just four runs in the first two overs. However, Tazmin Brits gave the innings some life with a couple of boundaries before being dismissed by Annabel Sutherland for 15.
The momentum shifted when Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch took charge, building a 96-run partnership for the second wicket. Wolvaardt anchored the innings with 42 runs, but Sutherland dismissed her to give Australia some hope. Bosch, however, remained solid at the crease, scoring a match-winning 74 off 48 balls. She ensured South Africa reached the target with 16 balls to spare.
With this emotional victory, South Africa now look ahead to the final, waiting to face the winner of the other semi-final between New Zealand and the West Indies.