After their dominant, record-breaking win over India at Lord’s, Australia will now face West Indies in the second semi-final at The Oval on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake.
Quick turnaround before semi-final
Australia have had very little time to prepare for the knockout clash. The team moved from their north London base on Sunday and will have just one training session at The Oval before taking on the West Indies.
The conditions at The Oval are expected to be different from those at Lord’s, making that practice session important as Australia look to adjust quickly.
Australia hold upper hand over West Indies
Australia will start as clear favourites, especially considering their recent record against the West Indies.
Earlier this year, they won all six white-ball matches during their tour of the Caribbean. They also beat the West Indies in a warm-up game before this World Cup.
However, Australia know past results will not matter once the semi-final begins.
Pain of previous World Cups still fresh
Despite their dominance, Australia have experienced heartbreak in recent ICC tournaments.
At the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, they reached the semi-finals unbeaten but were knocked out by South Africa. Last year, they also suffered a shock exit in the ODI World Cup semi-finals after India completed a record chase.
Those defeats have reminded Australia that winning every group match guarantees nothing in the knockout stage.
West Indies arrive with experienced stars
West Indies had a dramatic journey to the semi-finals.
A surprise defeat to Ireland left their qualification hopes hanging by a thread before England’s win over New Zealand confirmed their place in the last four.
Captain Hayley Matthews remains the team’s biggest match-winner with both bat and ball, while experienced campaigners Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor add valuable experience.
For West Indies to upset Australia, the senior trio will likely have to deliver standout performances.
Australia’s depth remains their biggest strength
Australia’s batting has been consistent throughout the tournament, with different players contributing in every match.
Their bowling attack has also adapted well to different conditions, making them one of the most balanced teams in the competition.
With another World Cup final within reach, Australia will be confident. But after two painful semi-final exits in recent ICC events, they know there is no room for complacency.
