England Women’s Team. (Sophie Ecclestone/Twitter)
After a dominant run in the group stage with four back-to-back wins, Heather Knight-led England (ENG-W) comfortably found a place in the semi-final of the ongoing Women’s T20 World Cup 2023. On the other hand, the hosts, South Africa (SA-W), began their campaign with a loss to Sri Lanka but concluded group phase with two wins to qualify to for the semi-final.
Two sides are now set to cross swords in the last four of the event at Newlands in Cape Town on February 24. Though, Heather Knight and Co. seem favourites to win the contest, the hosts could give the rival side a run for their money in the crucial tie.
Speaking about their head-to-head in the last five outings, the Three Lions have a massive advantage with five wins whereas the Proteas have only won once. It remains to be seen if South Africa can end England’s dominant run in the semi-final clash on February 24.
ENG-W vs SA-W Match Details
England Women vs South Africa Women, Semi-Final 2, Women’s T20 World Cup
Venue: Newlands, Cape Town
Date & Time: February 24, 06:30 PM IST
Telecast & Live Streaming: Star Sports Network & Disney+ Hotstar
ENG-W vs SA-W Pitch Report
The 22-yard strip at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town is a bowling-friendly surface which offers assistance to bowlers. The seamers play a bigger role throughout the contest. The deck offers some extra bounce and zip to the pacers. As the bowlers will look to dominate the contest, either skipper winning the toss may elect to field first.
ENG-W vs SA-W Probable Playing XIs
England Women (ENG-W):
Sophia Dunkley, Danielle Wyatt, Alice Capsey, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight (c), Amy Jones (wk), Sophie Ecclestone, Katherine Sciver-Brunt, Charlotte Dean, Sarah Glenn, Freya Davies
South Africa Women (SA-W):
Tazmin Brits, Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus (c), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Anneke Bosch, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba
ENG-W vs SA-W Probable Best Performers
Probable best batter
Nat Sciver-Brunt
Nat Sciver-Brunt has been in terrific form for the side and with momentum at her end, she will aim to dominate the Proteas with the bat and with the ball. She remained unbeaten with 81 runs to her name against Pakistan in the previous clash which steered the side to score over 200 runs.
Probable best bowler
Sophie Ecclestone
The No. 1 bowler in T20Is, Sophie Ecclestone has been impressive with the ball for the side in the marquee event as well. Not only has she been able to get the wickets but she has also restricted the rival side from scoring big. She will aim to play a vital role in the semi-final tie against the hosts.
Today’s Match Prediction: England Women to win the match
Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
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