England against South Africa: Women's Cricket World Cup Semi-Final

The highly anticipated semi-final between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

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

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

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.