Daijiworld Media Network – London

London, Jul 2: England will take on South Africa in the second semi-final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup at the Kennington Oval in London on Thursday, with a place in the final at stake. The match is scheduled to begin at 11 pm IST.

The winners will face Australia in the title clash at Lord's on Jul 5 after the six-time champions defeated the West Indies by eight wickets in the first semi-final.

Hosts England enter the contest as favourites after winning all five of their group-stage matches. Their batting has been led by Danni Wyatt-Hodge, while the return of captain Nat Sciver-Brunt from a calf injury further strengthens the side. Sophia Dunkley has also impressed in the middle order, and England's spin attack has been among the standout performers in the tournament.

South Africa, meanwhile, won four of their five group-stage matches to reach the last four. The Proteas will rely on skipper Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk to challenge the hosts.

South Africa's pace attack, featuring Kapp, Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka, has been one of the team's biggest strengths. Their ability to break through England's formidable top order is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the semi-final.