On Sunday, thousands of spectators packed Newlands Stadium in Cape Town to see South Africa’s Proteas take on Australia in the final match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. South Africa lost by 19 runs, but Proteas women’s captain Suné Luus said she is proud of her team’s performance in the finals.
South Africa defeated England by six runs at Newlands on Friday, sending the team to the Women’s T20 World Cup final against Australia on Sunday. Tazmin Brits hit 68 in the Proteas’ 164-4 total, then held four catches, two of which were outstanding, as England was held to 158-8.
Also read: Goodluck, DBN Gogo, Rouge and Maphorisa to light up T20 Women’s World Cup opening
Despite Sunday’s loss, captain Suné Luus said the tournament had been a major boost for women’s cricket in South Africa, with big crowds supporting the home team even after their early losses.
According to an article on News24, Luus said:
“I’m definitely proud of every teammate of mine. We’ve done an incredible job to get to the final, and I think to put up a fight against a team like Australia. I just feel really proud.”
Luus challenged South African cricket officials and the government to advocate for girls’ cricket in schools as well as to improve the club and provincial systems so that the team can continue to knock on Australia’s door.
Beth Mooney was named Player of the Match after scoring an unbeaten 74 in Australia’s 156-6 total. Mooney stated that the Australian players were pleased with their dominance.
South Africa’s bowlers bowled consistently and were supported by energetic fielding, with both Shabnim Ismail and Kapil Dev taking two wickets each.
However, Australia demonstrated their ability to defend their total with athleticism and commitment, putting the South African batters under constant pressure.
Also read:
Cape Town E-Prix more about e-mobility than racing says mayor
Picture: @proteaswomencsa / Instagram