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The much-awaited semi-final featuring the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, and South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive fours off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5)

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

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used 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 had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.