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The highly anticipated semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' uplifting song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team naming competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the throw by NSB wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

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

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match unfolds.