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The much-awaited knockout match between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, and South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team naming strong elevens.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling in place of Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the throw by NSB missed the stumps. She then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball back at Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on with both sides targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as the match progresses.