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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours from 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, Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“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 further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.