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The much-awaited semi-final featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

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

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, 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 earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in 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 aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as the match progresses.