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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey 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, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a ball toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single 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 surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.