English Women Bow Out in World Semis

England left themselves too much to do in the field as Australia claimed a place in the Women's World Cup final with a five-wicket win in Potchefstroom today.

England refused to throw in the towel after being bowled out for 158 in the first semi-final but 62 from captain Belinda Clark helped Australia to victory with three overs to spare.

A 59-run stand between skipper Clare Connor (35) and Arran Brindle (32), followed by a useful 29 from Clare Taylor, gave England a fighting chance after they had been reduced to 21 for three early on by Cathryn Fitzpatrick (three for 27).

Two brilliant pieces of fielding from Brindle to run two Australians out gave England further hope but Clark took control of the innings.

Connor and Isa Guha chipped in with further wickets and there was another run out but it was not enough to prevent England's elimination from the tournament.

Connor admitted England's total had not been sufficient. "It wasn't enough, it was a good wicket and we needed to post something nearer 200," she said. "It was a gutsy effort in the field and all credit to the girls for hanging in there. We showed a lot of courage and a lot of fight in the field.

"We didn't always bowl well at all times during the game and I think we know where we've got to go and improve before August. We've had some ups and downs but it was good to get to the semi-finals and we're obviously just disappointed not to go that one step further."

Australia will now play India or New Zealand in the final. The second semi-final takes place at the same venue on Thursday.