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The highly anticipated knockout match between England and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were performed before the match, with South Africa's rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with each team fielding strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, thanks to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

Wolvaardt, who is in fine form, struck back-to-back fours from 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 (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. She then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers for four. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

Fourth Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19 for no loss (Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A half-chance went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

First Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8 runs, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

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

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.