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The much-awaited semi-final featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights 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.

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

Lauren 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 a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows 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 as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as the match unfolds.