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The eagerly awaited knockout match between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with each team naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling 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 four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.