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The eagerly awaited semi-final featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team naming strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

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

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

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, 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 surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.