England v The Proteas: Women’s World Cup Semi-Final

The much-awaited knockout match featuring England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

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

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.