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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and both sides naming strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back boundaries off Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort from Nat Sciver-Brunt 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.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, 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's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match unfolds.