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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 at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were revealed and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

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

5th Over: South Africa 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a ball outside off through the covers for four. Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits hammered a delivery toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for four.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the initial delivery with style past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

The two sides have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings 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.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.