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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to quick work in the field from Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. History shows 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 as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.