The first semi-final of the ICC Women’s One-Day World Cup will be played between England and South Africa today at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, India.
The game is expected to be intense, with both teams struggling for a spot in Sunday’s final.
England, having shown steady form in the group stage, have only lost a single game. With their well-balanced team and robust middle order, they are favourites going into the encounter.
Conversely, South Africa’s campaign has been one of ups and downs. Star batswoman Laura Wolvaardt has been the standout with 301 runs scored so far in the tournament, but the team’s overall consistency has been in question. The Proteas were bowled out for only 97 runs against Australia in their last group-stage match, a performance they will hope to forget when they take to the field today.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final will be played on Thursday between defending champions Australia and hosts India at Mumbai’s DY Patil Stadium. Australia remain unbeaten in the competition, having won six of their matches, while one game was washed out due to rain.
Having seven World Cup titles under their belt, the Australian women’s team comes into the knockout round as probable favourites to win yet another trophy. India, driven by home advantage and subsequent improvement in the later stages, will be a tough nut to crack.
