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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team naming strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed 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 "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.