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The eagerly awaited knockout match between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours off Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a wide delivery past cover for four. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different 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 help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.