🔗 Share this article

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

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.