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The highly anticipated knockout match featuring England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team naming competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries from Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

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

3rd Over: South Africa 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.