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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced with each team naming competitive lineups.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, but South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.