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The much-awaited semi-final featuring the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

3rd Over: South Africa 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

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

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.