🔗 Share this article

The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team fielding competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing 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 21-0 (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 the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. 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 stakes are high as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match progresses.