🔗 Share this article

The highly anticipated knockout match featuring England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides naming strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries off Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.