🔗 Share this article

The eagerly awaited knockout match between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

Third Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. 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 unfolds.