Guwahati, Oct 3: The excitement in Guwahati continues as the ACA Cricket Stadium, Barsapara, gears up to host another high-profile match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, with England taking on South Africa today from 3 PM onwards.
The fixture marks England’s opening match of the tournament as the four-time world champions aim to bounce back into form, while South Africa one of the most consistent teams in recent years, enter the contest as serious title contenders.
England, currently ranked second in the all-time winners list behind Australia, will look to extend their dominance over South Africa, having beaten them in both previous ODI World Cup semifinals, including a commanding win in 2022.
South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, will seek to turn the tables this time. The Proteas come into the tournament with an impressive run, having defeated Australia, England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies in the lead-up.
“We’ve built a strong, balanced team that can perform in any condition,” said South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt before the match. “Playing in Guwahati is special, and we hope to start strong.”
The spotlight will also be on opener Tazmin Brits, who arrives in red-hot form after back-to-back centuries in Pakistan, including a career-best 171*. With Marizanne Kapp expected to play a vital all-round role and Karabo Meso adding youthful energy behind the stumps, South Africa’s lineup looks dangerous.
However, the team’s limited spin resources, with Nonkululeko Mlaba as their primary option, could be tested under Guwahati’s humid subcontinental conditions.
England, on the other hand, will rely on its experienced core to set the tone early in their campaign. Fans in Guwahati are expected to fill the stands once again after the record turnout seen during India’s opener against Sri Lanka.
- Venue: ACA Cricket Stadium, Barsapara, Guwahati
- Time: 3:00 PM (IST)
- Fixture: England vs South Africa — ICC Women’s World Cup 2025
- Highlight: England’s first match of the tournament; South Africa aiming for a statement win
