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The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, and South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single 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", which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.