Shrubsole hat-trick seals England’s place in World T20 semis

Anya Shrubsole took a hat-trick as England beat South Africa by seven wickets to book their place in the last four of the ICC Women’s World T20.

Shrubsole combined with fellow opening bowler Nat Sciver – who recorded the remarkable figures of 4-1-4-3 – and spinners Sophie Ecclestone, Kirstie Gordon and Linsey Smith to dismiss South Africa for just 85 and the batters chipped in to chase it down with seven wickets and six overs in hand.

Danni Wyatt was England’s top scorer with 27, but there was also 24 for Tammy Beaumont and a pair of unbroken 14s by Amy Jones and Heather Knight to see England home.

West Indies’ victory over Sri Lanka secured England’s passage to Antigua – where they will face either Australia or India – but not before England go up against the hosts in Saint Lucia on Sunday.

Heather Knight’s side’s route to the World T20 semi-finals

Nov 10: England v Sri Lanka – Match abandoned due to rain

Nov 12: England v Bangladesh – England (64-3) beat Bangladesh (76-9) by 7 wickets (DL method)

Nov 16: England v South Africa – England (87-3) beat South Africa (85 all out) by 7 wickets