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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.