England Beat South Africa to Reach Women’s T20 World Cup Final Against Australia
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
LONDON: England booked their place in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 final with a commanding 40-run victory over South Africa in the second semi-final at The Oval on Thursday.
Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt starred on her return from injury, scoring a match-winning 75 runs, while former captain Heather Knight added a valuable 58 to guide England into Sunday’s title clash against defending champions Australia women’s national cricket team.
Sciver-Brunt and Knight Rescue England
After being sent in to bat, England found themselves in early trouble at 23-3 within the first four overs.
South Africa’s pace attack struck quickly as Shabnim Ismail dismissed opener Amy Jones with the first ball of her spell, while Marizanne Kapp removed in-form batter Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
With England under pressure, Sciver-Brunt and Knight combined for a crucial 133-run partnership for the fourth wicket, rebuilding the innings and shifting momentum back in England’s favour.
Sciver-Brunt struck 75, while Knight contributed 58, helping England post a competitive 169-5 from their 20 overs.
South Africa Fall Short in the Chase
Chasing 170, South Africa struggled to build partnerships against a disciplined England bowling attack.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt scored 17 before being dismissed, while key all-rounder Marizanne Kapp was removed for just five runs.
Opener Tazmin Brits fought back with a half-century, but regular wickets prevented South Africa from mounting a serious challenge.
The Proteas finished on 129-8, handing England a convincing 40-run victory.
Sciver-Brunt Delighted After Injury Return
Named Player of the Match, Sciver-Brunt admitted she felt nervous returning after missing England’s final three group-stage matches because of a calf injury.
She credited the experienced partnership with Heather Knight for helping England recover after the early collapse.
According to Sciver-Brunt, the pair focused on surviving South Africa’s dangerous new-ball attack before accelerating later in the innings.
England to Face Australia in Final
England will now meet long-time rivals Australia in the Women’s T20 World Cup final at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Sunday.
Australia secured their place in the final after defeating the West Indies women’s national cricket team by eight wickets in the first semi-final.
