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The much-awaited knockout match featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck 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 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey 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 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.