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The much-awaited knockout match between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team naming competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

Third Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

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, promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as the match unfolds.