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The much-awaited semi-final between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and both sides fielding strong elevens.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours off Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

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

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.