England against South Africa: Women’s World Cup Semi-Final
The highly anticipated semi-final between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.
Key Moments
- National anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
- Team Lineups were announced and each team naming competitive lineups.
- The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
- Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.
Live Match Updates
7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)
Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.
6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)
The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.
Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)
A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.
Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6 runs)
Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.
Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)
A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.
Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)
Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.
First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)
Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.
Match Preview
The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.
The two sides have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.
“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.
Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.