London, June 30 (IANS) Australia fast bowler Lucy Hamilton says she will carry renewed belief into her side’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup semi-final against the West Indies after producing three disciplined performances with the new ball during the tournament.

Speaking at The Oval ahead of the knockout clash, the 20-year-old reflected on her experience of playing on cricket’s biggest stage, her confidence after facing India at Lord’s, and the challenge awaiting Australia as they chase a place in Sunday’s final.

Hamilton, who earned selection in Australia’s World Cup squad despite limited international experience, said every outing has strengthened her confidence as she continues to settle into the role of opening the bowling.

“It’s been really fun. (It’s) really exciting to run out there and take the first over,” Hamilton told cricket.com.au.

The left-arm quick identified Australia’s group-stage victory over India as a defining moment in her tournament, saying the occasion had helped reinforce her belief ahead of the semi-finals.

“Personally, I took heaps of confidence (out of the India game). Everyone feels nervous, and you always have those moments, but running out, singing the anthem in front of so many people (at Lord’s) and knowing how much it means to everyone, you always have those couple of nerves, but I think once you get that first over under underway you settle into the game,” she added.

Hamilton believes those experiences have prepared her for another high-pressure contest, with Australia needing to overcome the West Indies to keep their title hopes alive.

“Knowing that the team did really well … the semi-finals are an even bigger occasion, so knowing that I’ve got that under my belt, and with a massive crowd and against a really strong Indian team, gives me lots of confidence,” she stated.

She also welcomed the short turnaround between matches, saying the team wants to build on its recent performances rather than lose momentum.

“It’s a fast turnaround, but I think it’s really good in T20 cricket to have that momentum; we’re all ready to go and can’t wait. The quality of cricket that we’ve been playing recently … you want that leading into a semi,” Hamilton said.

The semi-final will also mark Hamilton’s first appearance at The Oval, prompting her to visit the venue before match day to familiarise herself with the conditions.

“I haven’t played at The Oval before … I’m glad I came down (on match eve) just to have a look at the facilities and get used to it and see how fast the outfield is. The conditions can change a lot, so we just have to adapt to them as fast as we can and play our style of cricket,” she mentioned.

Hamilton expects a fearless approach from the West Indies, whose captain has already suggested her side will embrace the underdog tag in the knockout contest.

“I think (West Indies) have nothing to lose in the semi, so they’ll come out hard, and they’re a great opposition,” Hamilton said.

Australia face the West Indies in the first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup semi-final at The Oval, with the winner advancing to Sunday’s final at Lord’s.

–IANS

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