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

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed before the match, and South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team fielding strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

First Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

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. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.