England has surprisingly advanced to the ICC Women’s World Cup final after defeating South Africa in the semi-finals. After such a poor start to the competition, in which the team lost their first three matches in a row, reaching the final appeared improbable at one point. England, on the other hand, was driven through by ripping performances from the likes of Danni Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, and Sophie Ecclestone, leaving South Africa with plenty to think about.

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Tammy Beaumont got the game started right away, scoring a four on the opening pitch. She quickly fell behind and was quickly followed by her skipper, Heather Knight, who only scored one run. This didn’t matter for England, as Wyatt maintained her excellent form and hammered 129 off 125 with the support of a 60 from Dunkley. Amy Jones and Eccelstone both delivered 28 points, bringing England‘s total to 293-8.

South Africa batted first, but Anya Shrubsole shone brightly as she caught and bowled the Proteas’ primary danger lady, Laura Wolvaardt, for a duck. Another wicket for Shrubsole, as well as one for Charlie Dean and Kate Cross, was followed by a remarkable performance by ODI’s number one spinner Ecclestone. England’s top spinner captured six wickets for 36 runs as South Africa was knocked out for 156.

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After a dreadful start to the competition, there seemed to be little chance that England would advance this far, yet their brilliance and calmness dominated South Africa.

England must now meet old rivals Australia in the final, hoping to replicate the magic of the semi-finals when they face the squad that has stayed unbeaten throughout the tournament.

When is the final?

On Sunday, April 3, 2022, the ICC Women’s World Cup final will be held. The game will begin at 06:30 am IST.

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Where is the cup final being held?

The game will be held at the Hagley Oval. The semi-final, as well as England’s match versus Pakistan, were held here.

Where to watch the match?

The match will be telecasted on the Star Sports network. It can be watched online on Disney + Hotstar

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Probable squads

England: Heather Knight (C), Tammy Beaumont, Danni Wyatt, Nat Sciver, Amy Jones, Sophia Dunkley, Katherine Brunt, Kate Cross, Sophie Ecclestone, Charlie Dean, Anya Shrubsole.

Australia: Meg Lanning (C), Rachael Haynes, Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney, Tahlia McGrath, Annabel Sutherland, Darcie Brown, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Megan Schutt.