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The highly anticipated semi-final between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: South Africa 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

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 "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.