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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and both sides fielding strong lineups.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6 runs)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery with style past cover for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.