🔗 Share this article

The highly anticipated knockout match featuring England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

NSB brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries off Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery back at Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly 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 pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, but South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side 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 aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.