LONDON: Beth Mooney starred with an unbeaten half-century as Australia brushed aside West Indies to reach the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final for the eighth time at the Kennington Oval on Tuesday.
Set a partly 126, Australia romped to target in 13 overs, losing only two wickets in the process. This marked the eight time that the six-time champions have booked a place in the final.
Mooney made 61* off 36 balls, striking eight fours, whereas Ashleigh Gardner remained not out on 35 from 20, including four fours and a six.
For West Indies, Chinelle Henry and Hayley Matthews picked up a wicket each.
Earlier, West Indies captain Hayley Matthews top-scored with 30 but her side were derailed by a collapse that saw four wickets lost for 12 runs in 17 balls as they tamely slumped to 59-4 after being sent in to bat.
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West Indies suffered a setback shortly before the match started when Deandra Dottin appeared to faint while the teams were lining-up for the national anthems and had to be helped from the field.
By the time experienced batter Dottin came in, the West Indies were 83-6 in the 15th over. But her quickfire 26 not out did help them get a total beyond 100 and give her side a glimmer of hope against six-time champions Australia.
Off-spinner Ashleigh Gardner, who struck twice in an over, led the attack with 2-13.
Australia, yet to lose a match at this tournament, will face the winners of Thursday’s second semi-final, between England and South Africa, in Sunday’s final at Lord’s.
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