It's the boost England's women cricketers have been waiting for – Nat Sciver-Brunt, their star captain, is back in business! After weeks on the sidelines with a nagging calf issue, Sciver-Brunt has got the green light to lace up her boots and lead her team into battle against South Africa in Thursday's T20 World Cup semi-final. And what a time to make her return – The Oval, one of England's fortress grounds, is set to host this mouth-watering match.
Sciver-Brunt put in some vital net practice on Wednesday morning, and she's raring to go. "We are confident I am fully fit," she told BBC Test Match Special with a swagger that says it all. The England camp has given her the nod, despite the quick turnaround to Sunday's final – if they make it past South Africa, that is.
One thing's for sure – Sophia Dunkley might be saying goodbye to the starting XI as Sciver-Brunt takes her place. And with a new batting line-up on the cards, England's opponents will be licking their lips in anticipation of a clash between two of the world's top teams.
England are the clear favourites going into this match, but they know that South Africa have the firepower to blow them off course. The tourists have been inconsistent throughout this tournament – but when it counts most, do they have what it takes to go all the way?
Captain Laura Wolvaardt is adamant her side can turn things around and make history on English soil. But will Sciver-Brunt's return be the game-changer England need to seal their place in the final? The Oval is set to host a cracker – don't miss it!
Wolvaardt was tight-lipped about the prospect of Sciver-Brunt having a substitute fielder, citing cricket regulations that only permit subs for injuries sustained during play. But one thing's for sure – Sciver-Brunt is a player who knows how to make an impact, and England will be counting on her to deliver.