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The eagerly awaited semi-final featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by 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, but the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

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

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Keep following for further developments as the match progresses.