Cricket

The Adelaide Strikers dealt a significant blow to the Perth Scorchers' WBBL finals aspirations with a commanding 30-run victory at Karen Rolton Oval.The Strikers, who have won the past two WBBL titles, posted a competitive 169 for 6, thanks to contributions from Laura Wolvaardt (41), Smriti Mandhana (41), and Katie Mack (41).The Scorchers' chase got off to a disastrous start as Megan Schutt wreaked havoc with the new ball, dismissing Maddy Darke, Dayalan Hemalatha, and Amy Edgar in quick succession. Beth Mooney and Brooke Halliday attempted to salvage the innings, but the task proved too daunting.Schutt finished with impressive figures of 3 for 19, while Alana King claimed 3 for 29 for the Strikers.The victory lifted the Strikers from the bottom of the ladder to seventh place, while the Scorchers remain in fifth spot with two games remaining. However, the Scorchers' run rate deficit to fourth-placed Hobart Hurricanes makes their finals chances appear slim.

Australia and South Africa Set for T20 World Cup Semifinal ShowdownDubai, 6pm local timeAustralia and South Africa will face off in a highly anticipated semifinal clash at the T20 World Cup on Thursday. Both teams have been in impressive form throughout the tournament, with Australia unbeaten and South Africa boasting a 3-1 record.Australia's Unbeaten RunAustralia has been the dominant force in the tournament, winning all four of their group matches. They overcame a spirited challenge from India in their last group game, securing a nine-run victory. Captain Alyssa Healy, who missed the India match due to a foot injury, is expected to return for the semifinal.South Africa's ResurgenceSouth Africa has also impressed, winning three of their four group matches. Their only defeat came against England, but they bounced back with victories over Bangladesh and New Zealand. They will be looking to avenge their heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 T20 World Cup final.Key Players to WatchMegan Schutt has been a standout performer for Australia, with her miserly spells proving crucial in all four of their wins. Tazmin Brits has been equally impressive for South Africa, providing solid starts at the top of the order.Venue and ConditionsThe semifinal will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where Australia has played just one match so far. The average first-innings score at the venue is 126, suggesting that a low-scoring affair could be on the cards.Head-to-Head RecordSouth Africa has a poor record against Australia in T20Is, having won just one of their 10 previous encounters. However, they will be hoping to break that trend and reach the final for the second time in a row.