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The much-awaited semi-final featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

Third Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. 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 spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.