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The much-awaited knockout match between England and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed with both sides naming strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit back-to-back fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, however the throw by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

Third Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

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

The two sides have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. History shows that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.