Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Nat Sciver-Brunt return has handed England a major lift before their T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa at the Oval, with the captain ready to play after missing the final three group matches with a calf problem.
The 33-year-old retired hurt against Ireland after a recurrence of the injury she first suffered in April. England’s medical team then worked through an intense recovery plan, including seven hour-long sessions of magnetic resonance therapy.
For more England cricket coverage, read Joe Root Tribute Shows What Ben Stokes Meant To England, while official tournament information is available through the International Cricket Council website.
England Captain Clears Fitness Test
Sciver-Brunt batted in the nets on Wednesday but did not take part in outdoor fielding drills. England had considered bringing her back against New Zealand, but delayed the move because the semi-final place was already safe.
On her overall fitness, she said: “I’ve been put through my recovery paces and worked really hard to get myself to this position. I’m really happy to be sat here.”
“We’ve tested it [my calf] enough to be comfortable,” she said. “Myself and the medical team are really happy with where we’re at. Everything has gone to plan.”
Selection Call Creates A Headache
Sciver-Brunt’s return could put Sophia Dunkley under pressure, despite her strong recent scores of 57 against Scotland and 49 not out against New Zealand.
Charlotte Edwards may still be reluctant to disturb a batting order that has carried England unbeaten through the tournament.
“Lots of different people have stood up,” Sciver-Brunt said. “Someone’s going to be really disappointed tomorrow.”
Charlie Dean has led the side well in Sciver-Brunt’s absence, but the regular captain said there was no plan for her to return only as a batter.
“[Dean] is happy to pass it [the captaincy] back – she said she definitely didn’t want to do any more media,” said Sciver-Brunt, jokingly.
South Africa Carry Knockout Belief
South Africa enter as underdogs, but they beat England in the 2023 semi-final at Newlands and Laura Wolvaardt believes that memory matters.
“Our team hasn’t changed too much since then so we’ve got a lot of people that are able to draw on that experience. This is a team that is able to rise to the big occasions. It should give us confidence knowing we’ve done it before.”
Sciver-Brunt, though, sees this England side differently.
“It’s different to how we felt in the previous World Cup, or the last two years,” she said.
