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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides naming strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back fours off Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions covered the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet 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)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas 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 aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.