T20 World Cup, The Oval

England 169-5 (20 overs): Sciver-Brunt 75 (47), Knight 58 (47)

South Africa 129-8 (20 overs): British 51 (45); Bell 2-28

England won by 40 runs

Scorekeeper

England roared into Sunday’s T20 World Cup final against Australia with a magnificent 40-run victory against South Africa at The Oval.

On a brilliant night under the lights in front of a jubilant and expectant crowd, England overcame their recent difficulties in pressure matches in the biggest sign of improvement under coach Charlotte Edwards to date.

They faltered from the start, faltering at 23-3 in the fourth over, but captain Nat Sciver-Brunt posted an immaculate 75 for 47 on her return from a calf injury that had threatened to rule her out of the tournament.

She shared a partnership of 133 off 90 balls with England’s other wise head, Heather Knight, lifting England to 169-5. Knight, just as impressive as Sciver-Brunt, scored 58 of 47.

And although those two contributed almost all the runs, England’s excellence on the field was an all-round effort.

His fielding, which for so long was a glaring weakness, was outstanding.

Sophie Ecclestone made a leaping catch to beat Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt and break an opening position of 43, then took advantage of a difficult second chance to dismiss Sune Luus. Danni Wyatt-Hodge also finished off Sinalo Jafta with a direct hit.

As for the bowlers, Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean took two wickets each, Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Freya Kemp one each, as South Africa’s hopes were extinguished.

Their wait for a World Cup victory continues but England, although they will be second favorites against their oldest rivals at Lord’s, have a real chance of claiming their first trophy since 2017.