The English Team v South Africa: Women’s Global Tournament Knockout Clash

The much-awaited semi-final featuring the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' uplifting song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Keep following for more updates as the match progresses.