England v The Proteas: Women's Cricket World Cup Semi-Final

The much-awaited semi-final between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding strong elevens.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries from Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

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

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

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5)

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single 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 help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.