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

Highlights

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and both sides naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, and the floodlights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

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

The two sides have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.