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The much-awaited knockout match between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and both sides naming competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then another poor delivery through the covers.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin 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. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Stay tuned for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.