When South Africa lost their opening game of the tournament against Sri Lanka few would have backed them to reach the championship match but the Proteas have shown a lot of fire and fight. Australia are still the form team and the big favourites but the hometown crowd will do their best to act as an equaliser.
Australia vs South Africa | ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final | Sunday 26 February 2023 | Newlands, Cape Town | 15:00
To Win match
Australia 17/100 | Tie 25/1 | South Africa 17/4
Australia have been impressive and swept to victory over South Africa when they last met in emphatic fashion.
They could only hope that the final is a match that runs as smoothly for them but they are also a side that can raise their game in the clutch.
Australia’s women are expected to win trophies almost every time they turn out but that expectation comes with its own pressure.
They showed hints of vulnerability against India in their semi-final but this side is favourite for a reason.
South Africa are in the final, but World Cup heartache could still strike this team.
Even if the experts all believe Australia have their name on the trophy, this South African team have hope, knowing that small moments can turn a T20 game.
They were inspired in the field against England, with Tazmin Brits particularly putting herself about to take a spectacular catch that was worth the price of admission for the packed Newlands crowd.
It will take another inspired performance to unseat defending champions Australia, another good start from Laura Wolvaardt and Brits, and more excellent bowling.
Verdict: Australia 17/100
On paper, it’s extremely difficult to look past Australia, but do we dare hope.
