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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team naming strong lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

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

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, which flew for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have had 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.

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

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.