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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed before the match, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team naming competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB missed the stumps. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. History shows that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“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 the match progresses.