ICC Women’s World T20: Anya Shrubsole hat-trick helps England close on semis berth

It was a must-win game for World Cup champions England after their opening game against Sri Lanka was washed out, but a tame effort with the bat from South Africa ensured the match was never a real contest.

Anya Shrubsole took a hat-trick as England thrashed South Africa by seven wickets in Saint Lucia to boost their hopes of reaching the Women’s World Twenty20 semi-finals.

Anya Shrubsole (L) celebrates after taking a wicket against South Africa in the ICC Women’s World T20. (Twitter)

Hosts and reigning champions West Indies could send themselves and England into the last four if they beat Sri Lanka later on Saturday.

It was a must-win game for World Cup champions England after their opening game against Sri Lanka was washed out, but a tame effort with the bat from South Africa ensured the match was never a real contest.

“Anya’s bowled brilliantly for us, and to have so few runs to chase was nice,” said England captain Heather Knight.

The usually big-hitting Lizelle Lee crawled to a 26-ball 12 before being trapped by Natalie Sciver, who ended with incredible figures of three for four from four overs, as South Africa mustered a paltry 85 all out.

READ: Kohli told to be ‘humble’ by CoA after ‘leave India’ controversy: Report

She dismissed Shabnim Ismail, Masabata Klaas and Yolani Fourie with the first three deliveries of the final over.

England openers Danni Wyatt and Tammy Beaumont put on a quickfire 55, and wicketkeeper Amy Jones’ driven four wrapped up a thumping victory with 35 balls to spare.

“The manner of the loss (means) we owe an apology to our whole country, it’s not our character to roll over like that,” bemoaned South Africa skipper Dane van Niekerk, who was run out backing up for one.

“We have the firepower and the talent but you need to perform at World Cups against quality sides like England. I don’t know what’s going on, I don’t have answers.”