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The highly anticipated semi-final between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed and both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball 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 compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.