Legendary cricketer from Australia Meg Lanning shared his predictions for the next semi-finals of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025naming the teams she thinks will qualify for the grand final. The tournament has reached its decisive phase, and with four top teams — England, South Africa, IndiaAnd Australia — battling for a place in the final, Lanning’s ideas attracted a lot of attention.
Meg Lanning explains who will get the nod in the first semi-final
The first semi-final will see England take on South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on October 29. Lanning, while speaking on the ICC Review, backed England to overtake the Proteas, citing their consistency and squad depth.
“I think England have built well throughout the tournament and their key players are playing well. You have Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight and Sophie Ecclestone, who have all done very well. If they benefit from the contributions of a few others, they are a very dangerous team,” Lanning said.
The former Australia captain acknowledges South Africa’s resilience but believes England’s ability to handle pressure in knockout matches could be the deciding factor.
“Both teams have impressed at different stages, but I think England’s depth and balance will give them the edge,” she added.
2017 champions England are in great form, with Sciver-Brunt and Ecclestone leading the charge in the batting and bowling departments. Meanwhile, South Africa, playing in their third consecutive World Cup semi-final, will look to break their curse and reach their first final.
ALSO READ: Women’s World Cup 2025: What happens if 1 ENG vs SA semi-final in Guwahati is cancelled?
Lanning predicts winner of India vs Australia clash
The second semi-final between India and Australia, scheduled for October 30 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, promises to be a blockbuster. India will have the advantage of local conditions and passionate local support, but Lanning expects his former team to be up to the task.
Lanning stressed that India, led by a confident batting unit, will be a formidable opponent, especially with players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet KaurAnd Deepti Sharma in great shape. However, Australia’s experience and adaptability, she believes, will make the difference at critical times.
“I think Australia have incredible depth. They have shown throughout the tournament that they are not dependent on one or two players. Even if they lose a few wickets early on, there is real power in the lower order that can get them out of different situations,” Lanning added.
READ ALSO: Will England’s Sophie Ecclestone miss the semi-final against South Africa? Here’s what we know | 2025 Women’s World Cup
This article was first published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
