England get major update on Nat Sciver-Brunt's fitness hours ahead of T20 World Cup semifinal against South Africa

England have received a timely boost ahead of their ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal, with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt declared fit for the clash against South Africa at the Kennington Oval on July 2.

Sciver-Brunt missed England's last three group-stage matches against Scotland, West Indies and New Zealand after suffering a calf injury during the game against Ireland. She had retired out on 48 in that match as the team management chose not to take any risks, with England well placed to secure a spot in the knockout stage.

The all-rounder confirmed that she has made a full recovery and is ready to lead her side in the high-stakes encounter.

"I'm really happy with where I am at physically. Myself and the medical team are really happy with where we're at. Physically I'm able to take part in all of the game, so from that point of view I'm really happy," Nat Sciver-Brunt told the media in her pre-match press conference.

Sciver-Brunt also reflected on the uncertainty she faced immediately after picking up the injury, revealing that the semifinal had always been the target for her return.

"Walking off not really knowing what's happened, knowing something has happened, getting the scan results back, we had this game in mind," Sciver-Brunt said. "The New Zealand game came too soon. This game was the target, so everything's gone according to plan."

Her return is a significant boost for England as they prepare for a crucial semifinal against South Africa. England have the psychological edge over the Proteas with a favourable head-to-head record. The hosts have won 23 of the 28 T20I matches the two sides have played against each other, with South Africa getting over the line only on four occasions. One game couldn't yield a result. The winner of the second semifinal will take on Australia in the final on July 5 at Lord's.