T20 World Cup: England roar into final with superb win over South Africa

T20 World Cup, The Oval

England 169-5 (20 overs): Sciver-Brunt 75 (47), Knight 58 (47)

South Africa 129-8 (20 overs): British 51 (45); Bell 2-28

England won by 40 runs

scorecard

England reached the T20 World Cup final against Australia on Sunday with a stunning 40-run victory over South Africa at The Oval.

England had a spectacular night under the lights and in front of an enthusiastic and expectant crowd as they overcame their recent struggles in the presser games to show the biggest sign of improvement to date under manager Charlotte Edwards.

They faltered early on, suffering a 23-3 falter in the fourth round, but captain Nat Sciver-Brunt fired a flawless 75 from 47 on his return from a calf injury to see him out of the tournament.

She shared 133 off 90 balls with England’s other wise captain, Heather Knight, to take England to 169-5. Knight, who was as impressive as Sciver-Brunt, received 58 points from 47.

And while those two provided almost all the runs, England’s excellence in the field was an all-round effort.

His performances on the field, which had long been a glaring weakness, were outstanding.

Sophie Ecclestone took a leaping catch to remove Proteas skipper Laura Wolvaardt, breaking an opening stand of 43, and later grabbed the second tough chance to dismiss Sune Luus. Danni Wyatt-Hodge also edged out Sinalo Jafta with a direct hit.

As for the bowlers, Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean took two wickets each; Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Freya Kemp one each as South Africa’s hopes fade.

The wait to win the World Cup continues but England have a real chance of winning a first trophy since 2017 despite being second favorites against their oldest rivals at Lord’s.