West Indies Women Set Australia 126-Run Target in Semi-Final

West Indies Women posted 125/7 in 20 overs against Australia Women in the first semi-final of the Women’s T20 World Cup. Australia chose to bowl first and kept control for most of the innings.

Hayley Matthews gave West Indies a positive start with 30 off 28 balls, hitting five fours. Qiana Joseph supported her with 16, but the scoring rate slowed after the powerplay as Australia's bowlers tightened their grip.

Australia's spinners turned the match in their favour during the middle overs. Georgia Wareham struck twice, dismissing Hayley Matthews and Shemaine Campbelle, who scored 22 from 25 deliveries. Ashleigh Gardner delivered an outstanding spell, claiming 2 wickets for just 13 runs in four overs, while Sophie Molineux also picked up two wickets.

West Indies slipped from 55/1 to 83/6 as regular wickets prevented them from building partnerships. Stafanie Taylor and Jahzara Claxton were both dismissed without scoring, putting further pressure on the middle order.

Deandra Dottin provided late resistance with an unbeaten 26 off just 16 balls, striking four boundaries. Her late acceleration helped West Indies finish on 125/7, giving their bowlers a total to defend.

Australia's disciplined bowling performance was backed by sharp fielding, restricting West Indies from posting what looked like a bigger score after their solid start.

Match Prediction

Australia Women enter the chase as clear favourites. A target of 126 is considered below par on most T20 surfaces, and Australia's deep batting lineup has the experience to handle the pressure of a knockout match. However, West Indies will look to Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, and Karishma Ramharack to strike early and create opportunities.

If Australia negotiate the powerplay without losing multiple wickets, they are well placed to secure victory and book their place in the Women's T20 World Cup final. West Indies, meanwhile, will need an exceptional bowling effort and early breakthroughs to defend the total.