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The eagerly awaited semi-final between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.