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The much-awaited knockout match featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding competitive lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

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

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side 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 more updates as the match unfolds.