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The much-awaited semi-final between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed before the match, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team naming competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

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

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.