The Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 Final between Australia and South Africa was a thrilling affair, with the Proteas stuttering in their chase of 157.
Australia won the toss and elected to bat first, with Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney opening the batting. The pair put on a solid partnership of 57 before Mooney was dismissed for 28. Healy continued to bat well, eventually being dismissed for a well-made 75. The rest of the Australian batting line-up chipped in with useful contributions, with the team eventually posting a total of 156/7 in their 20 overs.
South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start, with Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt both dismissed for single-digit scores. The Proteas were in trouble at 28/2, but Mignon du Preez and Sune Luus steadied the ship with a partnership of 57. However, the Australian bowlers kept the pressure on, and the South African innings began to unravel. The Proteas eventually finished on 137/7, falling short of the target by 19 runs.
Australia’s bowlers were the stars of the show, with Megan Schutt and Jess Jonassen both picking up three wickets each. Schutt was particularly impressive, conceding just 18 runs in her four overs. Jonassen was also economical, conceding just 22 runs in her four overs.
The victory was Australia’s seventh Women’s T20 World Cup title, and the team will now be looking to defend their crown in the next edition of the tournament. South Africa, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance in the final, but will be hoping to go one better in the next edition.
Overall, it was a thrilling final, with Australia eventually coming out on top. The Australian bowlers were the stars of the show, and their performance was the difference between the two sides. South Africa will be disappointed with their performance, but will be hoping to go one better in the next edition of the tournament.
