The first semi-final of ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 between India and England got abandoned on Thursday (March 5) because of torrential rains in Sydney, ensuring Women in Blue’s place in the tournament final for having finished higher in the group-stage points table.

Rain was expected during the big match and not a single ball could be bowled at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Since there was no reserve day in place, Harmanpreet Kaur and company became the first Indian side to advance into the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup.

After the outcome, Indians men’s cricket team skipper Virat Kohli took to Twitter and congratulated the Harmanpreet-led side.

“Congratulations to the Indian Women's team on qualifying for the @T20WorldCup final. We are proud of you girls and wish you all the luck for the finals,” he wrote.

Kohli’s better half and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma was also elated with the result as she tweeted: “Rain played spoilsport when we all wanted to witness a great match and see our girls in blue qualify to the finals ! But nonetheless , we will take this with both hands as well Grinning face with smiling eyes cannot wait for the 8th of March.”

India will now take on the winner of the second semi-final to be played between South Africa and Australia. Considering the match will be played at the same venue, South Africa might also reach the final having finished their league stage at the top of Group B.

Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the summit clash on Sunday (March 8).