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The highly anticipated knockout match between the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched 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, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were announced and both sides naming competitive lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours from 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 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 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. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match unfolds.