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The much-awaited knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

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

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back boundaries off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort from NSB missed the stumps. She then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a delivery toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.