Australia cruised into the Women's T20 World Cup final with a commanding 7-wicket victory over West Indies in the semi-final played in Dubai. The defending champions chased down the target of 113 with 11 balls to spare, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.
West Indies Innings
West Indies, after being put in to bat, managed only 112 for 8 in their 20 overs. Captain Hayley Matthews top-scored with 38 off 35 balls, while Shemaine Campbelle contributed 26. However, the Australian bowling attack, led by Megan Schutt's 2 for 18 and Ashleigh Gardner's 2 for 22, kept the scoring in check. Deandra Dottin's 15 off 19 was the only other notable contribution as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Australia's Chase
In reply, Australia lost opener Alyssa Healy early for 8, but Beth Mooney (42 not out off 39) and Meg Lanning (29 off 28) steadied the innings with a 52-run partnership. After Lanning's dismissal, Mooney and Ellyse Perry (22 not out off 19) guided the team home with ease. The Australian run chase was clinical, never allowing the required rate to climb above six runs per over.
Key Moments
The turning point came when Gardner dismissed Matthews in the 12th over of the West Indies innings, breaking a promising partnership. Schutt's early wickets of Dottin and Campbelle also set West Indies back. For Australia, the fielding was sharp, with a run-out of Stafanie Taylor further denting the West Indies hopes.
Final Berth
With this win, Australia secured their place in the final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final between India and England. Australia are seeking their seventh T20 World Cup title and have been unbeaten in the tournament so far. The final is scheduled for Sunday in Dubai.
