South Africa reach first-ever ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup final with win over Australia

South Africa made history by securing their first-ever spot in the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup final after a commanding five-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-final at Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. The Proteas, who have remained unbeaten in the tournament, delivered an impressive all-round performance to book their place in Sunday’s title clash against either India or England.

Australia, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, struggled against South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack. They were restricted to 105/8, largely due to a brilliant four-wicket haul by Ashleigh van Wyk (4/17) and sharp fielding efforts from the Proteas. Early on, Nthabiseng Nini provided a dream start by dismissing the dangerous Ines Mckeon off the very first ball of the match. Van Wyk then made a major impact in the death overs with crucial breakthroughs.

South Africa’s fielders also played a vital role, holding onto three difficult chances. Seshnie Naidu took a sharp return catch to dismiss Eleanor Larosa for just seven, while Luyanda Nzuza grabbed a tough chance to send Hasrat Gill back as Australia found themselves struggling at 62/5 with just over five overs left. Despite a fighting knock from Caoimhe Bray (36) and a late flourish from Ella Briscoe (27*), Australia’s total appeared underwhelming against South Africa’s formidable batting line-up.

Chasing 106 for victory, South Africa started cautiously but remained in control throughout the chase. Australia found a glimmer of hope when Chloe Ainsworth (1/19) bowled Simone Lourens for five in the third over. However, Jemma Botha took charge of the innings, scoring a vital 34 while ensuring the run rate remained steady. Even after the dismissals of Fay Cowling (7) and Botha, Kayla Reyneke (26) and Karabo Meso (19) steadied the ship, guiding the Proteas closer to victory.

Despite losing both Reyneke and Meso in quick succession, Mieke van Voorst (8*) and Naidu (2*) ensured there were no late jitters, calmly steering South Africa past the finish line with 11 balls to spare. The victory not only extended South Africa’s unbeaten streak in the tournament but also set up a historic final appearance as they aim to lift the coveted trophy for the first time.