England reached the Women's Under-19 World Cup final with a thrilling three-run win over rivals Australia.

In a low-scoring semi-final, England successfully defended 99 all out in Potchefstroom to earn a final place against India, who beat New Zealand earlier.

Australia lost early wickets but looked in control at 56-4 before their last six wickets fell for just 40 runs.

Hannah Baker starred for England with 3-10 from her four overs.

"We're all absolutely delighted," said Baker. "We really believed at the halfway mark that we could still win and the two early wickets gave us even more confidence.

"We knew if we kept the stumps in play we could keep causing problems and we backed each other in the field really well.

"There's one massive game left - it's so special to have qualified for the final - but we have to give it everything in one last game to hopefully come away with the trophy. It's been an amazing competition, and we've learned so much, but there's one more challenge to come and that's our focus now."

After winning the toss and opting to bat, England were reduced to 45-7.

Alexa Stonehouse compiled a gritty 25 as they clawed their way to 99 before being all out in the 20th over.

In what transpired to be a low-scoring nail-biter, Australia stumbled in their chase - but needed just eight to win from 18 balls with two wickets in hand.

However, Milly Illingworth was run out hunting a quick single, before Maggie Clark was trapped lbw by Grace Scrivens in the next over to seal England's progress.

England now face India, who beat New Zealand by eight wickets, in the final at the same venue on Sunday (11:45am GMT).

In the group stages, England finished top of Group Two with four wins from four, while India topped Group One ahead of Australia.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1306 HRS, JAN 28, 2023
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