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The much-awaited semi-final featuring the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler 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's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. 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 stakes are high with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match progresses.