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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding strong elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a wide delivery past cover for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.