Watch: Tazmin Brits claimed a phenomenal catch to help turn the T20 World Cup semi-final South Africa’s way after a strong start by England.
The Proteas set England 165 to win, with Brits’ 68 the highest score, but it was a total that looked like it might be insufficient as Danni Wyatt and Sophia Dunkley raced to 53-0 in five overs. But a rapid, double-wicket over from Shabnim Ismail changed the complexion of the contest, with the highlight a stunning catch from Brits to see off Alice Capsey.
Dunkley was the first to go, sending a catch to Brits at mid-wicket off the splice. But while that was a simple chance, the second was anything but. Ismail delivered a quick bouncer to Capsey, who played a pull shot while ducking the ball. Despite the unorthodox method, she made decent contact, sending the ball in front of square and on a downward trajectory.
It seemed as if she had placed the ball just out of reach of Brits at mid-wicket. But she moved to her right, dived, and put out a hand to grab the ball inches from the ground with the chance seemingly past her, sparking wild celebrations. Ismail closed out a two-run, two-wicket over, with suggestions it may have been the fastest over ever bowled in women’s cricket.
From there, a toing, froing contest thrilled the packed crowd, but it was South Africa who prevailed by six runs to qualify for their first World Cup final in any format, men’s or women’s.
