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The highly anticipated semi-final featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with each team fielding competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours from Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match unfolds.