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The highly anticipated semi-final featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team naming competitive lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used 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 mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won 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.