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The eagerly awaited knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed with both sides naming competitive lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part despite some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours from Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate 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 targeting a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling encounter progresses.