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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team naming competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

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

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

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

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

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run 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 "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Keep following for further developments as the match unfolds.