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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides naming competitive elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

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

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.