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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team 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.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides fielding competitive lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive boundaries off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as the match unfolds.