England (w)
South Africa (w)
The stage is set for a blockbuster clash as England take on South Africa in the first semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 in Guwahati this Wednesday. Both sides arrive with strong campaigns behind them, and there’s little to separate them on paper.
England, the four-time champions, finished the group stage with five wins, one defeat, and one no-result, showcasing their consistency yet again on the big stage. South Africa, meanwhile, also claimed five victories but fell short twice – against Australia and England – making this rematch a shot at redemption.
For the Proteas, the stakes couldn’t be higher. They’re chasing a historic first-ever Women’s World Cup crown, and knocking out England would be a huge statement.
Heather Knight’s team, on the other hand, will be determined to extend their legacy with a record fifth title. With both sides boasting power-packed lineups and momentum on their side, Guwahati could witness one of the most gripping contests of the tournament.
Guwahati pitches have offered assistance to bowlers, so expect a moderate-scoring game rather than a run-fest.
The betting tip is...
Total Runs - Under 450 Runs
66 %
34 %
England (w)South Africa (w)England Women secured their semi-final spot in style, finishing second on the points table after an impressive league campaign. The defending champions have looked balanced throughout the tournament, combining consistency with experience.
Captain Heather Knight has once again been their anchor with the bat, amassing 288 runs to lead England’s scoring charts. On the bowling front, Linsey Smith has been outstanding, picking up 12 wickets and maintaining control in crucial middle overs.
In their final group match, England made a strong statement with a commanding eight-wicket win over New Zealand. Bowling first, England’s disciplined attack restricted the White Ferns to just 168. Despite a 68-run stand between Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr, New Zealand lost momentum as England’s bowlers kept chipping away at key moments.
Chasing 169, England’s top order looked in complete control. Openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont set the tone with a solid 75-run stand. Beaumont contributed 40 before falling to Lea Tahuhu, but Jones remained unbeaten on 86, guiding England home comfortably in the 30th over.
With momentum firmly on their side and both batters and bowlers firing, England enter the semi-final against South Africa brimming with confidence.
Predicted Lineup: Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones (wk), Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Heather Knight, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge, Linsey Smith, Sophia Dunkley, Alice Capsey, Charlotte Dean, Sophie Ecclestone/Sarah Glenn, Lauren Bell
South Africa head into the semi-final after finishing third in the group stage, securing their place in the knockout rounds with five wins from seven matches.
Their campaign has been powered by skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who has led from the front with 301 runs, making her the team’s top scorer in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. On the bowling front, Nonkululeko Mlaba has been the standout performer, claiming 11 wickets and providing key breakthroughs in the middle overs.
However, the Proteas will be looking to bounce back strongly after a humbling defeat to Australia in their final league match. Batting first, they were bundled out for just 97, with Wolvaardt’s early strokeplay offering a brief glimpse of resistance before the innings crumbled. Alana King’s sensational 7-for-18 tore through South Africa’s batting order.
In response, Australia chased down the target with ease, winning by seven wickets in under 17 overs despite a couple of early hiccups.
Heading into the knockout clash against England, South Africa will be desperate to rediscover their batting form and rely on their dependable spin attack to deliver under pressure.
Predicted Lineup: Tazmin Brits, Laura Wolvaardt (c), Sinalo Jafta (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko Mlaba
England head into the semi-final with superior form, depth, and knockout experience, making them clear favourites. Their top order looks in rhythm, and Linsey Smith’s form with the ball gives them the edge in Guwahati’s spin-friendly conditions.
South Africa’s reliance on Laura Wolvaardt could hurt them if early wickets fall again. England to win and advance to the final comfortably.
