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The eagerly awaited semi-final between England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed and both sides naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.