Christchurch will embrace the biggest clash between two world heavyweights among whom England will defend its title while the Aussies lock horns with them to win its 7th title. Australia is the most successful, unbeatable team in this tournament so far. They have all their departments sorted and studded with consistent pros and trouble-shooters.
The World No.1 has seen tremendous success in this world cup and its unbeaten run shows its impeccable planning and perfect execution. Even a minor setback has been dealt with firmly by bringing into attack its trouble-shooters. They left no margin for error and stunned every team with their roaring form.
England’s comeback into this event after losing three straight matches set a strong precedence for other teams to compete for its spot in the Semis. England came back strongly with all its might, be its strong bowling attack, the batters’ resurgence to make sure they cross the winning line and the gradual improvement in fielding lifted its chances.
England now has a sorted top order, while the middle order has to perform to give its best shot and finish matches for the team. The lower order has been a balance that England proudly banked on. They pitched in with important and match-saving runs. The bowlers especially spinners took the onus on themselves and sealed matches for the defending champions since their comeback. The fielding is n area they have to be clear and sharp to keep the Aussies at bay.
Australia has its own set of balance and stability throughout its squad with the abundance of all-rounders present in it. Every slot in the lineup has its own significance, every player has clarity in their roles and that provides the team with the needed composure to deal with any situation. The pace and the spin attack are led by the veterans Meghan Schutt and Jess Jonassen. Ellyse Perry is expected to make her way into the team as a specialist batter.
This is the 5th time Australia and England face each other in the Worldcup finals. Through the years the Southern Stars have won 3 times against England. This is Australia’s 10th appearance in the finals out of which it won a staggering 6 titles so far. England is the second most successful team after the Aussies. England won 4 World Cups out of the 7 final matches it has played.
Both teams will test each other’s competency at the highest level and the team that is capable of confronting its positives and setbacks alike will win the title tomorrow.
Probable Playing XI:
Australia: Rachael Haynes, Meg Lanning (C), Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy(WK), Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Meghan Schutt, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Tahlia McGrath, Darcie Brown
England: Tammy Beaumont, Heather Knight (C), Natalie Sciver, Amy Ellen Jones (WK), Danielle Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, Katherine Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross, Charlie Dean, Anya Shrubsole