Proteas captain Sune Luus banking on openers in World Cup semifinal

Proteas captain Sune Luus banking on openers in World Cup semifinal

Proteas Women captain Sune Luus believes the first wicket partnership will be crucial in their T20 Women's World Cup semi-final against England on Friday at Newlands.

In the final group match against Bangladesh on Tuesday, openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits put on an unbeaten 117-run stand.

Luus believes if the duo can make it to the 10th over once more, South Africa will have a strong chance of advancing to their first-ever World Cup final.

"I think, obviously, we knew the stakes for that game, but I think the way the two batters out there went about the chase in those 10 overs – that's the way we want to start tomorrow," said Luus.

"So, I think just with that attacking brand of cricket and just the plan they had around those last 10 overs, I think that's definitely how we want to start the game tomorrow."

Coach Hilton Moreeng has been in charge of the Proteas Women since 2012 and will lead the team to a third T20 World Cup semi-final on Friday, after doing so in 2014 and 2020.

The skipper admits going one better this time around would be particularly special for the long-serving servant of the women’s game.

"I think he's only focussing on one game at a time, I don't think he's thinking too far ahead, but I do think it will obviously mean the world to him for us to get through this semi-final and get to the final," she added.

"I think it's always been a dream of his as well, like it's been for us, so whether win or lose he's going to be extremely proud, but even more so when we do win tomorrow."

The match against England is set to start at 15:00 on Thursday afternoon. You can follow the live updates on sabcsport.com.