England skipper backs spin strength and all-round depth before Guwahati showdown
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 continues with one of its most anticipated early encounters as England take on South Africa in Guwahati. With both teams regarded as serious contenders, the contest at Barsapara Cricket Stadium promises to set the tone for their campaigns.
For England, captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has been clear about the blueprint for success—drawing confidence from conditions, squad depth, and her own return to full fitness.
Reading the conditions and trusting the spin attack
Having observed India’s win over Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at the same venue, Sciver-Brunt believes the pitch will demand smart adaptations.
“The wicket looked quite good,” she said. “It seemed easy to score in the Powerplay but tougher in the middle overs once the spinners came on. That’s a pattern we’ll look to replicate with our bowling. Our spin attack has been a real strength for years, and making life hard for batters in that phase is crucial.”
With Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, and Charlie Dean among the options, England have the variety to squeeze opponents in the middle overs, a tactic that could be decisive against South Africa’s power-hitters.
Sciver-Brunt the all-rounder brings balance
After injury setbacks, Sciver-Brunt has confirmed she will contribute with both bat and ball, giving England flexibility in team selection.
“Being able to play as an all-rounder changes the balance,” she explained. “It means we can field seven batters, which gives us a strong foundation for the tournament.”
That depth could prove vital in subcontinental conditions, where adapting to different match situations often separates the contenders from the rest.
Leaning on Heather Knight’s experience
This tournament also marks a role reversal, with Sciver-Brunt captaining former skipper Heather Knight. Far from seeing it as a challenge, she is embracing the chance to draw on Knight’s tactical expertise.
“It would be stupid of me not to listen to her,” Sciver-Brunt said. “Heather’s got a brilliant cricket brain. I’m encouraging her to be as vocal as possible, whether it’s with the bat or tactical input. Her experience is hugely valuable.”
Preparation for subcontinental challenge
England completed a pre-World Cup training camp in Abu Dhabi to prepare for the demanding heat and humidity. Sciver-Brunt believes that groundwork will pay dividends.
“The camp was really valuable,” she noted. “We got used to tough conditions that we don’t face in England. The key for us will be adapting quickly to whatever is in front of us, both physically and tactically.”
Key squads in focus
England Squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Em Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Linsey Smith, Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
South Africa Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloe Tryon.
What to expect
With England’s depth and spin firepower pitted against South Africa’s experience and big-match temperament, the Guwahati clash has all the ingredients of a tournament classic. Both teams will look to stamp their authority early and build momentum in the group stage.