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

Highlights

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team fielding strong elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery past cover for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

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

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter progresses.