While the fans were much anticipated to witness the stunning unbeaten run of Indian Women who were fixed to take on England Women today in the first semi final of the 2020 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Unfortunately, a heavy downpour in Sydney saw the match getting abandoned without a single ball bowled. However, for India the match abandonment has been a boon- as they have automatically qualified for their maiden T20 World Cup final, for having more Group stage points than England!
While rain delayed the start of the match today at Sydney Cricket Ground, it was decided at first to have a 10 over game between the semi finalists. Although, bad weather continued and the match was cut off, as the second semi final between South Africa and the hosts Australia are to take place at the same venue later today.
The calling off resulted in India’s swift passage into their first T20 World Cup final, for having secured more points in Group stage than England.
While India were unbeaten in Group A with 8 points, England lost one out of their four group stage matches in, as they qualified as Group B runners up behind toppers South Africa.
The marvellous win streak worked in favour of the Women in Blue, as skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was happy how the amazing Group run turned out beneficial for the team at the end.
“Unfortunate we didn’t get a game, but there are rules and we have to follow it. Having reserve days in the future will be a great idea. From day one, we knew we have to win all the games because in case the semis don’t happen, that would be hard for us.” Kaur said after the call off.
On the other hand, it was a saddening affair in the Englishwomen dressing room.
“Really frustrating. Not how we wanted the World Cup to finish for us. No reserve day, no chance of getting play, and ultimately that loss against South Africa cost us,” England captain Heather Knight told reporters.
If the second semi final also meets the same fate, South Africa, who secured 7 points in group stage will get the automatic qualification over Australia, the Group A runners up with 6 points.
Interestingly, the Proteas will also enter their maiden final against India, both eyeing their first T20 World Cup trophy on 8th March in Melbourne.
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