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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form 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 that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.