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The highly anticipated knockout match between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's rousing anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced and both sides naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, 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.

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

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

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, and the floodlights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for further developments as the match unfolds.