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The eagerly awaited knockout match between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

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

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.