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The much-awaited knockout match featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and both sides fielding competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

NSB brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.