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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

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

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

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single 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 the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. 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 stakes are high with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.