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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding competitive lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

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

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

Fifth Over: South Africa 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits a dismissal, however the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

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)

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin 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 four.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England 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 targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match progresses.