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The eagerly awaited knockout match between England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad won the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung before the match, and the Proteas' uplifting song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were revealed and each team naming strong lineups.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to some agile fielding from Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a ball outside off past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

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

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

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Bell, which flew to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games but served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a place in the final.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match progresses.