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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National 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 secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in this competition.

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

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

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball with style through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.