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The much-awaited knockout match featuring the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team fielding competitive lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours off Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

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

Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.