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The much-awaited knockout match between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding competitive lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. 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 with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as the match progresses.