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The eagerly awaited semi-final featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits a dismissal, however the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0 runs)

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

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in 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 place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.