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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 has kicked off in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed and both sides naming competitive lineups.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to play despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt took over the bowling to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: South Africa 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: South Africa 27 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the throw from Nat Sciver-Brunt missed the stumps. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

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

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, that raced for four runs.

Second Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

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

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

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly past cover for four. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It is described as a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in both previous semi-final meetings when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The pressure is on with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match unfolds.