After their dominant, record-breaking win over India at Lord’s, Australia will now face the West Indies in the second semi-final at The Oval on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake.
Quick turnaround before the semi-final
Australia has very little time to prepare for the knockout contest. The team moved from their north London base on Sunday and had just one training session at The Oval before taking on the West Indies.
Conditions at The Oval are expected to be different from those at Lord’s, making the practice session crucial as Australia look to adjust quickly.
Australia hold the top of the 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 Caribbean tour. They also beat the West Indies in a warm-up game before this World Cup.
However, Australia knows past results won’t matter when the semi-finals begin.
The pain of previous World Cups is still fresh
Despite their dominance, Australia have experienced disappointment in recent ICC tournaments.
In the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, they reached the semi-finals undefeated 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 losses reminded Australia that winning every group game does not guarantee a knockout stage.
West Indies came with experienced stars
West Indies had a dramatic journey to the semi-finals.
A shock 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 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 need to put in some outstanding performances.
Australia’s depth remains their biggest strength
Australia’s batting has been consistent throughout the tournament, with different players contributing in each 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 are confident. But after two painful semi-final exits in recent ICC events, they know there is no room for complacency.