England women reach World Cup final after convincing display against South Africa
- Planet Sport writer
- 31 March 2022
After losing the opening three games of the tournament, England recorded a fifth successive win against South Africa to book their spot in the World Cup final.
Two weeks ago, England suffered defeat against South Africa to mark a third loss in a row to start their World Cup campaign.
However, since that loss, the side have won five straight games, with the latest being a dominant 137-run victory against South Africa in the semi-finals.
Sophie Ecclestone was the standout performer, claiming a remarkable five wickets in Christchurch as England bowled South Africa all out for 156.
#CWC22 FINALISTS!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/qnL2kgpeoF
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 31, 2022
She finished on figures of six for 36, and was helped by some superb England fielding - the exact thing that unravelled them against South Africa in the group stage.
Instead, it was South Africa who were left frustrated in the field, with Danni Wyatt dropped five times en route to an astounding 129 from 125.
Alongside a contribution of 60 from Sophia Dunkley, England managed to set a total of 293 for eight.
South Africa's chase started miserably, with opening duo Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt dismissed for a combined two from 17 deliveries.
Lara Goodall and Sune Luus somewhat steadied the ship with 28 and 21 respectively, before Mignon du Preez added another 30.
WHAT a moment! 🙌
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) March 31, 2022
England reach the World Cup final after a superb victory over South Africa! 🏆pic.twitter.com/aOJf1qCiOV
However, Du Preez then became the first victim of Ecclestone, and the 22-year-old slow bowler found her rhythm quickly.
Ecclestone added Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Trisha Chetty, Shabnim Ismail and Masabata Klaas to her hit list, with South Africa only adding 60 runs between them before being bowled all out for 156.
Now in the final, England will have to overcome a difficult task against Australia if they are to successfully defend their World Cup title.
Having recently lost the Ashes series to Australia, Heather Knight's side will be keen to gain revenge, with the match starting on Sunday, April 3.
