NEWS
Follow UsEllyse Perry feels that the tough win against India, which ended the league stage for the six-time champions Australia in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, will work as a booster heading into the semi-final against South Africa on October 17 (Thursday) in Dubai.
“It felt like a bit of a step up the other night, particularly with the full crowd there and, probably not supportive of us. I thought the way we rose to that and just adapted to the challenge was awesome,” Perry said about Australia’s win against India.
“Hopefully, that holds us in good stead for the time that we've got left in this tournament,” she added in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the semi-final clash.
When asked what the Aussies think of the South African side that met them in the final last year, Perry expressed appreciation for her opponent’s growth.
“South Africa are a team that are playing some great cricket. They've got some world-class players and some real threats. It's just a great challenge for us and one that we want to play well in,” said the 33-year-old.
Alyssa Healy, the regular skipper of the Australian team, got injured in the team’s match against Pakistan. She missed the India game and is most likely to miss the match against South Africa as well. Tahlia McGrath led the team in her absence.
“I think it's the same thing for Midge (Healy). The medical staff and the team are going to give her every opportunity and possibility to play tomorrow night. But I don't think anything's changed in that respect. We'll just have to see in the next 24 hours,” Perry said about the development of Healy.
Healy was quick to correct a journalist who asked her whether the team would approach the game differently against the Laura Wlvaardt-led side, as they are inferior to England or India.
“I'd probably challenge you on that. I think they're just as tough a competition as any other team, particularly when you're playing a World Cup semi-final. And they've got some of the best players in the world,” she said.
“Like, you only have to look at Marizanne Kapp and what she's capable of. And, you know, one player can turn a game in T20 cricket in particular. So, for us, I think we're just as nervous playing them as we would be any other team and our preparation for that's got to be spot-on if we're going to be successful tomorrow night. But there's lots to play out there so I'm excited for that challenge,” added the all-rounder with 2057 runs and 126 wickets in T20Is.
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