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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.