Sciver-Brunt Returns for England vs South Africa Semi-Final
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- Nat Sciver-Brunt confirmed she will return to England's XI for Thursday's semi-final against South Africa at The Oval, having recovered from a left calf injury and passed a net session Wednesday morning.
- Sciver-Brunt reinjured her left calf after starring in the win over Ireland a fortnight ago, forcing her to miss England's group-stage matches against Scotland, West Indies and New Zealand.
- England still went five wins from five without their captain, with Charlie Dean deputising as skipper and Sophia Dunkley stepping into the No. 3 batting role.
- Sophia Dunkley top-scored with 57 against Scotland and shared an unbroken 128-run stand with Danni Wyatt-Hodge in the win over New Zealand — yet Sciver-Brunt said whoever she replaces will be "really disappointed."
- South Africa have beaten England in their last two World Cup semi-final meetings (the 2023 T20 and last year's 50-over clash), but Sciver-Brunt played down scars, calling the current squad "quite different."
- The winner faces Australia in Sunday's final at Lord's, with Thursday's first ball at 6.30pm live on Sky Sports Cricket.
Why it matters: England get their captain back at the business end of the tournament, but the selection call comes at a cost: Dunkley's 57 against Scotland and an unbroken 128-run stand with Wyatt-Hodge likely won't save her spot. South Africa have eliminated England in their last two World Cup semi-finals, so an unbeaten group stage means little until this specific test is passed.
