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

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, and South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing 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, Brits 6 runs)

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

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch 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 extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“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 further developments as the match unfolds.