The highly anticipated semi-final between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.
Key Moments
- Anthems were performed before the match, with the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
- Playing XIs were announced with each team naming strong elevens.
- The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
- Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.
Live Match Updates
Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)
NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.
6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)
The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.
5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)
A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers 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 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)
Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.
Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)
A half-chance went begging. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.
Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)
Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. 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: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)
Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.
Match Preview
The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.
The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes between the sides.
“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a place in the final.
Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.
