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The much-awaited semi-final between England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, and South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides naming competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries off Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, however the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

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

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, and the floodlights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. 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 pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.