Agency :Holders Australia booked their place in their third successive Women’s World Twenty20 final with an eight-run victory over West Indies in Mirpur on Thursday. Opener Elyse Villani top scored with 35 as the Southern Stars made a competitive 140-5 from their 20 overs. The Windies briefly threatened when Deandra Dottin (40) and Stacy-Ann King (36 not out) were together, but fell short after Dottin holed out. England, winners in 2009, meet South Africa in the second semi on Friday. West Indies openers Stafanie Taylor (24) and Kycia Knight (21) added 43 in seven overs thanks to some early boundaries before both fell in quick succession. Taylor was run out attempting a second run on a misfield, while Knight was bowled trying to slog off-spinner Erin Osborne. The stage was set for the big-hitting Dottin and King as West Indies side looked to knock out the side who thrashed them in last year’s 50-over World Cup final. Both batters hit sixes against the Australian spinners, but just when it looked like West Indies were favourites, Dottin skied a low Sarah Coyte full toss high over deep mid-wicket and Osborne – named as player of the match for her economical spell of 1-18 – held her nerve to take the catch. It left the Windies still needing 20 from the last 10 balls, which proved beyond them as seamer Rene Farrell bowled a tight final over.
