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The eagerly awaited knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad clinched 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 revealed and each team fielding strong lineups.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, which flew to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team 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 between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.