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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced and both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“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 unfolds.