🔗 Share this article

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

Highlights

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team naming strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, 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 almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, however the throw by NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.