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The eagerly awaited knockout match between the English side and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Notable Events

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with both sides naming strong elevens.
• England secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite a bit of pain.

Live Match Updates

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

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: South Africa 35-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit back-to-back fours off Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

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

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

Third Over: South Africa 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5 runs)

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

2nd Over: South Africa 14 without loss (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1 run)

Cloudy skies hovered over the venue, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball 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 off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“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 further developments as the match progresses.