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

Notable Events

• Anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with each team fielding competitive lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 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 first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England 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 targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.