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The eagerly awaited semi-final featuring the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

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

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as the match unfolds.