Skip to content

Isa Guha says ICC Women's World Cup final between England and India is 'massive'

BRISTOL, ENGLAND - JULY 18:  England batsmen Anya Shrubsole (l) and Jenny Gunn celebrate the wining runs during the ICC Women's World Cup 2017 Semi-Final
Image: The ICC Women's World Cup final at Lord's is sold out and Isa Guha feels the nation is captivated by the tournament

Former England bowler Isa Guha believes Sunday's ICC Women's World Cup final is "massive" for the game as England prepare to take on India in front of a record-breaking sell-out crowd, live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Mix.

England defeated South Africa by two wickets in a thrilling semi-final to secure their place in the final at Lord's, while India beat Australia by 36 runs to qualify.

Guha, who lifted the World Cup trophy with England in 2009, says the outcome of the showdown is hard to call.

"It could be anyone's game. It's the chance to lift the trophy here at the Home of Cricket in front of a sell-out crowd," she told Sky Sports News.

"It's about who holds their nerve under pressure.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 10: Isa Guha of England is congratulated after she caught M.D. Thirushkamini of India during the ICC Women's World Cup 2009 round
Image: Isa Guha won the Women's World Cup with England in 2009

"Both teams and all of the players have really contributed and I think that's been the massive thing for both sides coming into this final."

Guha, who announced her retirement from international cricket in 2012, stressed the significance of playing at a full capacity Lord's.

Also See:

"I think it's massive. It's beyond their wildest dreams - to be playing at the Home of Cricket firstly, but then to play in front of a sell-out crowd.

BRISTOL, ENGLAND - JULY 18: Anya Shrubsole of England appeals during the Semi-Final ICC Women's World Cup 2017 match between England and South Africa at Th
Image: Anya Shrubsole of England appeals during the semi-final against South Africa

"The aim was always 'let's get people down to the ground' and I think the whole nation has really been captivated by the cricket that has been shown."

The 32-year-old has witnessed the women's game evolving over recent years and feels young girls and boys alike have been inspired as a result.

"That every game has been broadcast has been brilliant for the sport and the girls have really delivered as well on the bigger stage," she said.

"Young girls and boys have been inspired by what they have seen and that has encouraged more people to watch which is fantastic."