The stage is set for the most anticipated showdown of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as England and South Africa clash in the first semifinal at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, on Wednesday. This isn’t just another knockout match—it’s a story of redemption, revenge, and resilience.
Table of Contents
ICC Women’s World Cup Semi-Final Match Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | England vs South Africa, 1st Semifinal |
| Tournament | ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 |
| Venue | Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati |
| Date | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST (10:30 AM GMT) |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar App & Website |
| Reserve Day | Thursday, October 30, 2025 |
The Redemption Story Nobody Saw Coming
Picture this: South Africa bundled out for a humiliating 69 runs by England at this very venue in the tournament opener. Fast forward three weeks, and they’re back at Guwahati—same stadium, same opponent, but with an entirely different mission. South Africa has reached their third consecutive semifinal but has painful memories of losing to England in both 2017 and 2022, making Wednesday’s clash their golden opportunity to finally break the curse.
For comprehensive women’s cricket updates and tournament insights, visit our dedicated section at TechnoSports.
Match Preview: David vs Goliath Redux
England’s Campaign of Consistency
England finished second in the group stage with balanced performances, including dominant victories against South Africa and New Zealand. Their only stumble came against unbeaten Australia, but they’ve shown championship pedigree throughout.
Star Performers:
- Heather Knight: The experienced captain has accumulated 288 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 57.60, including a masterful century (109) against India
- Sophie Ecclestone: The world’s No.1 ranked ODI bowler has captured 12 wickets in six matches with an economy rate below 4.0, though her fitness remains a concern after a shoulder injury
- Linsey Smith: The left-arm spinner has emerged as a crucial weapon with 12 wickets in seven games at an economy rate of 3.6
South Africa’s Resurrection Tale
After their opening nightmare, South Africa rallied with five consecutive victories before falling to Australia in their final group match. Their mental fortitude has been tested and proven.
Players to Watch:
- Laura Wolvaardt (Captain): Just 48 runs away from becoming the first South African woman to reach 5,000 ODI runs
- Marizanne Kapp: The pace-bowling all-rounder is four wickets shy of equaling Jhulan Goswami’s World Cup record of 43 wickets
- Nonkululeko Mlaba: The left-arm spinner needs just one wicket to reach her 50th ODI scalp
Explore our Women’s World Cup 2025 special coverage for in-depth player statistics and tactical analysis.
Tactical Battle: Spin Will Win
The Guwahati pitch offers balanced conditions with an average first-innings score around 185-250 runs, with spinners finding significant assistance. Both teams boast world-class spin attacks, making this a chess match between two tactical masterminds.
South Africa struggled against Australian spinner Alana King in their recent defeat, collapsing to 97 all-out. However, their practice sessions suggest they’re preparing an aggressive counter-strategy against England’s formidable spin trio.
Head-to-Head: History Favors England
England dominates the rivalry with 36 wins against South Africa’s 10 victories in 47 ODIs. But knockout cricket rewrites history books, and South Africa’s recent T20 World Cup semifinals prove they can overcome historical disadvantages when stakes are highest.
Weather Watch
Cloudy skies with temperatures near 31°C and a 20% chance of light rain create potential interruption concerns, though the reserve day ensures a definitive result.
Where to Watch
Catch all the action live on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar, the official broadcasters of the tournament. For ball-by-ball updates and expert analysis, follow TechnoSports’ live match center.
For official tournament information, visit the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup website.
What’s at Stake?
The winner advances to the grand finale at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, November 2, facing either hosts India or defending champions Australia. For England, it’s about cementing their dynasty as four-time champions. For South Africa, it’s about shattering cricket’s ultimate glass ceiling and reaching their maiden World Cup final.
FAQs
Q1: What time does the England vs South Africa Women’s World Cup semifinal start, and where can I watch it?
The semifinal begins at 3:00 PM IST (10:30 AM GMT) on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Fans can watch live on Star Sports Network channels or stream online via the JioHotstar app and website. A reserve day is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, in case weather causes interruptions.
Q2: What makes this semifinal match so special between England and South Africa?
This match carries immense emotional weight as South Africa returns to the same venue where England humiliated them with a 69 all-out dismissal in the tournament opener. Additionally, South Africa has lost to England in the semifinals of both the 2017 and 2022 World Cups, making this their chance to finally overcome their semifinal demons and reach a maiden ODI World Cup final.
