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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

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

5th Over: South Africa 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB wasn't on target. She then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

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

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.