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The highly anticipated knockout match featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides naming strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

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

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, however the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.