Australia power into Women's WC final

WELLINGTON, Mar 30 (AFP): A double-century opening stand carried tournament favourites Australia to a commanding 157-run win over the West Indies on Wednesday and a place in the Women's World Cup final.

Australia dominated their rain-shortened semi-final in Wellington from the outset, built around a 216-run stand -- the highest of the tournament -- between experienced openers Alyssa Healy and Rachael Haynes.

An imposing score of 305 for three off a reduced 45 overs was never threatened by the West Indies, who succumbed for 148 in the 37th over.

The six-time champions Australia are unbeaten at the 50-over tournament and will face either South Africa or 2017 winners England in the final in Christchurch on Sunday.