India’s Dominance So Far
India has played like true defending champions, displaying an even stronger squad under Niki Prasad than the one that won the inaugural title in 2023. They have steamrolled past their opponents—West Indies, hosts Malaysia, and Sri Lanka in the group stage, followed by Bangladesh and Scotland in the Super 6s. The only real challenge came from Sri Lanka, yet India secured a convincing 60-run victory. Notably, all of India’s matches have been at the Bayumeas Oval, a venue none of the other semi-finalists have played at.
India’s Strengths
India’s success has been built on stellar bowling and fielding performances. VJ Joshitha and Shabnam Shakil have consistently provided early breakthroughs, helping India claim 19 powerplay wickets—the highest by any team in this tournament. Joshitha’s ability to swing the ball both ways is reminiscent of her role model, Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
After the pacers strike early, India’s left-arm spin trio—Parunika Sisodia, Aayushi Shukla, and Vaishnavi Sharma—ensures no comeback for the opposition. Sharma, in particular, has been outstanding, leading the tournament’s wicket-takers with 12 scalps, two Player-of-the-Match awards, and an economy of just 2.0.
On the batting front, G Trisha has been a standout performer. She became the tournament’s first centurion with an unbeaten 110 off 59 balls against Scotland and played a crucial 49-run knock on a tricky pitch against Sri Lanka, proving her ability to anchor the innings when needed.
India’s Weaknesses
While India’s top order has flourished, the middle order remains largely untested. Easy chases against West Indies, Malaysia, and Bangladesh meant limited time at the crease for the middle-order batters. Only Sanika Chalke, the vice-captain, has faced at least 20 balls in the tournament. If the semi-final turns into a close contest, India’s middle order might face its first real test.
Key Player to Watch
Captain Niki Prasad has led with maturity, making sharp bowling changes and field placements. India’s fielding, spearheaded by Chalke, has been among the best in the tournament. With their disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, India will back themselves to defend almost any total.
England’s Journey to the Semi-Final
England’s path to the knockouts has been anything but straightforward. They suffered two no-results due to rain (against Ireland and Nigeria) and missed out on topping their Super 6 group, forcing them into a tough semi-final against India. They also couldn’t carry forward points from their group-stage win over Pakistan, as Pakistan didn’t qualify for the Super 6s. Despite these setbacks, England delivered dominant wins against the USA and New Zealand to secure a last-four spot.
England’s Strengths
England’s aggressive batting approach is their biggest asset. Opener Davina Perrin, signed by Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred at just 15, has been explosive at the top, scoring 131 runs at a strike rate of 145.55, including five sixes—joint-most in the tournament. Her 74 off 45 balls against the USA helped England chase 120 in just 14.2 overs, marking the highest successful chase of the tournament.
With the ball, Tilly Corteen-Coleman has been a key performer. The left-arm spinner has taken seven wickets at an average of 5.14 and an economy of 2.8, while off-spinner Prisha Thanawala has provided strong support. Allrounder Trudy Johnson has proven to be a reliable wicket-taking seamer and a solid No. 3 batter. Behind the stumps, wicketkeeper Katie Jones—who models her game on Sarah Taylor—has been outstanding, registering nine dismissals in just three games, including a record five against New Zealand.
England’s Weaknesses
England’s middle order remains a concern. They have relied heavily on Perrin for runs, and frequent changes in the opening combination—three different partners in four games—suggest uncertainty. The lack of consistent contributions beyond the top order could be a problem against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Key Player to Watch
Jemima Spence, who opened against New Zealand, could play a crucial role in countering India’s left-arm spin trio. If England is to turn the tables on India after their 2023 final defeat, their middle order must step up, and their bowlers need to support Corteen-Coleman effectively.
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Final Thoughts
India enters this contest as the clear favorite, having dominated every opponent so far. However, England’s aggressive approach with the bat and their quality spinners could pose a challenge. The team that handles pressure better—especially in the middle overs—will likely book a spot in the final.
Who will emerge victorious? We’ll find out soon!
