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The much-awaited semi-final between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.