Worcestershire Women’s Rapids duo Charis Pavely and Ellie Anderson are celebrating reaching the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup final after England gained a dramatic three-run win over Australia in Potchefstroom.
England were bowled out for 99 in 19.5 overs but fought back magnificently with the ball, and Anderson took the first wicket as Australia were dismissed for 96 with eight balls remaining.
The Rapids pair can now look forward to Sunday’s final against India, who defeated New Zealand by eight wickets in the other semi-final.
It will also take place in Potchefstroom and gets underway at 11.45 GMT.
Worcestershire Rapids captain, Chloe Hill, said: “This is fantastic for Charis and Ellie, and they will remember this experience for the rest of their lives.
“To be part of a squad for a World Cup final is a fantastic feat.
“It’s been great to watch them grow and develop as players with the Rapids over the past couple of years.
“Everyone at Worcestershire wishes them all the best for Sunday.”
England were 45-7 at one stage, but 25 from Alexa Stonehouse gave them a total to defend, which they did superbly.
Anderson, the hero of the last match against the West Indies with five wickets, took the new ball and broke through with her fourth delivery.
She accounted for Kate Pelle for four and had figures of 2-0-6-1 to set the tone for the rest of the England attack.
Australia kept losing wickets at regular intervals but still seemed favourites at 96-8, only to lose their last two wickets without addition to the score.
It was the cue for scenes of celebration amongst the England players before they start preparing for Sunday’s final.
