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The much-awaited knockout match featuring the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10)

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

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a delivery back at Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.