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The much-awaited semi-final between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with both sides naming strong elevens.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as the match progresses.