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The highly anticipated semi-final featuring England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

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

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

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

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

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 assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. History shows that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.