For the purist or even just the fans of India and England, this would have made a good final line-up. These two teams spared in the final of last years' 50 over World Cup, a repeat would have closed any arguments once and for all.
This is an important game for India. A victory in this game will give Indian cricket the boost it needs to take the game forward on the domestic level. The players may know what this entails but they have the temperament to make the final at the weekend.
England were victorious that day. So much has happened in the development of both teams means that the result of this clash isn't a foregone conclusion.
The way that England played against West Indies on Sunday showed nerves and poor fielding display not seen since the last World T20. The batting didn't click as it has done Amy Jones with 50 runs is England's highest scorer in this tournament. The innings of Sophia Dunkley showed that things aren't all bleak. Mark Robinson (the coach) and captain Heather Knight will ensure that a repeat performance doesn't happen.
Players to watch out for:
Harmanpreet Kaur
The ultimate big game player she is and so far the only player to have scored a century in this year's World T20. Not only that but with 12 sixes is an exciting player watch. Kaur might not have the consistency of Mithali Raj but it is that potential to tee off that makes her one of the most exciting players in the world to watch.
Anya Shrubsole
The player of the match in the World Cup final, the seam bower is in impressive form. Without her opening partner Katherine Brunt, Shrubsole has really stepped up. Not only has her bowling been on point but in the final group game, she was the second highest scorer with the bat.
England will need Shrubsole to be at her best as India's top order have the ability to dictate terms from the start.
Conditions:
Only two women’s T20 internationals have been played at this venue. Both were in 2012 and the highest first innings score was 101 for 9.
This, however, is a world T20 semi-final, which means that the track produced will be suitable for attacking cricket for both the batter and bowler. There should be plenty of runs available.
Numbers to look out for:
Highest chase in World T20 semi-final - England - 165 for v Australia 2009.
Highest score in World T20 semi-final - New Zealand - 180 for 5 v West Indies 2010.
Lowest total successfully defended in World T20 semi-final - Australia - 115 for 7 v West Indies 2012.
Who said what:
“And obviously that World Cup last year found us in great stead in terms of (how) we won quite scrappy games we probably shouldn't have won.” - Heather Knight
“When we were coming here no one was sure that we could qualify for the semis. I think the credit goes to all team members and support staff that we worked hard in the last couple of months. It's just because of their hard work we have reached here." - Harmanpreet Kaur
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