T20 WC, SF1, INDvENG: Familiar battle between India and England with rain in focus

For many, it might feel like Deja vu, as India takes on England in a T20 World Cup semifinal. The last time it happened, England defeated India in 2018.

Though circumstances may not be the same, India would have their toughest match of the tournament in the semifinals.

Shefali Verma has been the backbone of Indian batting. She is the third-highest run-getter, with 161 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 161, which is the highest for any batter with fine now. The 16-year-old recently took over the top ranking for a batter in the format.

With a couple of matches to go for the ultimate glory, the focus will be on Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur to come to the party.

The Indian bowling has been excellent as they have been unbeaten in the tournament throughout the league stage. Poonam Yadav took all the limelight with her slow, loopy, leg-spinners and googlies. Shikha Pandey and others played a crucial support role for her.

Against England, they will have to outperform themselves to beat them. There’s is something India that brings the best in England.

Be it the 2017 World Cup final, or the 2018 semifinal, England have managed to crumble India under pressure.

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Heather Knight will be the leading from the front, while Danni Wyatt and Natalie Sciver have to perform to take them through.

The battle between Shefali and Anya Shrubsole will be key as the latter has proved to be a nightmare for India in the past. Katherine Brunt is another key bowler whose experience will be a significant factor for England.

Despite everything, the focus will be on the weather as it is expected to rain in Sydney on Thursday. If rain plays spoilsport, India will pass through to the finals.