'Best win of my cricketing career' - Laura Wolvaardt on South Africa's win over Australia in T20 WC semi-final

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt led her team to a historic victory against defending champions Australia in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024 semi-finals. The Proteas' eight-wicket win secured their place in the final and made it their first-ever win against Australia in the tournament's history.

The match in Dubai, saw South Africa successfully chase down a target of 135, the highest total they've ever pursued in a T20 World Cup. This victory was particularly sweet for the South African team, as they got revenge for their loss in last year's final against the same opponents. Wolvaardt, who played a crucial 42-run knock, was emotional in the post-match presentation.

"I think it is right up there, it is one of the best wins of my cricketing career for sure. A couple of other girls said it as well. Such an amazing chase, Anneke batted superbly. It has been a good year for us. A really collective group effort, we maybe analyzed a bit more about the other teams, glad some of the plans worked and I thought the bowlers bowled excellently to restrict them," Wolvaardt said.

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Meanwhile, Anneke Bosch earned the Player of the Match award for her unbeaten 74 off 48 balls. Wolvaardt praised Bosch's innings, calling it one of the best of her career, and the best time to bring it up.

"We did not have the best two overs at the start of the game, and Taz and I had a chat and we needed to put the foot down and Anneke played her role brilliantly as well, gave us the kick. One of the best of her career and what a time to bring it up," she added.

With this win, Australia ended their impressive streak of 15 consecutive victories in the tournament. The South African players were in tears after securing their final berth. Looking ahead to the final, Wolvaardt acknowledged the strength of both potential opponents, West Indies and New Zealand. 

"I really don't know, both sides are destructive on their day, West Indies look like favorites right now but you can't discount Amelia Kerr and co. Nice crowd and lots of South Africans in there," she concluded.