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

Highlights

• Anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and each team naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

Third Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but bowled a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings 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. The bowler then tightened her line, 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 surface with red soil, promising more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential 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 pressure is on as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.