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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

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, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

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

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match unfolds.