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

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides naming competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

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

5th Over: South Africa 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.