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The much-awaited semi-final featuring England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, 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 receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.