The semifinal jinx continued for South Africa as Australia eked out a five-run win (D/L method) against them in the rain-affected match at Sydney today, to set up a final date with India on March 8.
The defending champions managed to score 134/5 in their 20 overs after being put into bat first. Skipper Meg Lanning top-scored with run-a-ball 49. For the Proteas, Nadine de Klerk picked up three wickets for 19 runs.
Rain delayed South Africa's chase. Finally, when the match restarted, they were set a revised target of 98 from 13 overs, with powerplay reduced to four overs.
Though Laura Wolvaardt gave the Australians a scare with an unbeaten 27-ball 41, the South Africans could score only 92/5 in their 13 overs.
Megan Schutt was the pick of the bowlers for the defending champions, with 2/17. Delissa Kimmince, too, gave good support with a tight spell of three overs, conceding only 16 runs and picking up a wicket.
Australia will now face India in the summit clash on March 8. The Women in Blue entered the final by virtue of being group toppers after their semifinal match against England earlier in the day was washed out.
