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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

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

3rd Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.