🔗 Share this article

The highly anticipated semi-final between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and both sides fielding strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. 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's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.