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The much-awaited semi-final between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team naming strong elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.