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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.