Cricket: Women’s World Cup 2013 – West Indies beat Australia to reach finals

A jubilant West Indies ladies team celebrate after defeating Australia. PHOTO/AFP

Underdogs West Indies have stunned five-time champions Australia by eight runs in a thrilling Super Six stage match to storm into the final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup India 2013, against the same opponents at the MIG Club ground at Mumbai on Wednesday.

The victory by West Indies means that New Zealand and current champion England, currently playing in a day/night fixture, are not able to make the final and the two sides will meet again on 15 February to battle it out in the third-place play-off and a new global ranking.

It was West Indies’ first ever win over Australia in an ODI fixture and in return Australia’s first loss of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2013.

West Indies batting proved to be inconsistent, at one point, the side was reeling at 7-92 in the 25th over, before all-rounder Deandra Dottin, propped up the batting attack with a dazzling 60 runs, including ten fours and a six to help West Indies reach 164.

Australia looked likely to secure victory, when in the 39th over it was 130-4 but all went wrong when it lost its last six wickets for just 26 runs.

Australia was in trouble early, losing stylish opener Meg Lanning, bowled by left-arm spinner Shanel Daley. Lanning’s opening partner Rachael Haynes was next out with the score at 32. Jess Cameron and Lisa Sthalekar attempted to stabilize the innings but it was up to captain and vice-captain, Jodie Fields and Alex Blackwell, to try and resurrect the innings with a 41-run partnership.

Blackwell’s dismissal for 45 triggered a mini collapse as the side lost three wickets for one run. The lower order failed to provide the required runs, with two run-outs and thus helping the West Indies secure itself a place in the ICC Women’s World Cup final for the first time.

Scores:

West Indies 164 all out, 47 overs (Dottin 60; Ferling 3-27, Schutt 3-50)

Australia 156 all out, 48.2 overs (Blackwell 45, Cameron 39; Daley 3-22)

West Indies won by eight runs.