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The much-awaited semi-final featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with each team naming competitive lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have had mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.