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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, and South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover for four. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

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

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.