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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

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

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as the match progresses.