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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team fielding competitive lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced past the bat.

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

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

3rd Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery back at Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.