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The much-awaited knockout match between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team naming competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB emphasized the need for trusting the process.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding from Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, but the throw from NSB missed the stumps. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21 without loss (Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 5)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery back at Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. 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 four more runs. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The playing surface is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a surface with red soil, which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high with both sides aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for more updates as the match progresses.