🔗 Share this article

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

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides fielding competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, 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 surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“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 more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.