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The highly anticipated knockout match between the English side and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has kicked off at the Guwahati stadium. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against the South African batting lineup.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13 runs)

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent through long off, followed by another poor delivery through cover point.

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

A moment of hesitation almost resulted in Tazmin Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery which rose over Brits' bat.

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

Linsey Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the previous opportunity, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

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

Cloudy skies covered Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished through the covers for a boundary.

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

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, driving the first ball elegantly past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell then tightened her line, yielding only a single from a wide.

Match Preview

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

Both teams have had mixed performances in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have emerged victorious in earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on with both sides aim for a spot in the championship match.

Stay tuned for further developments as the match unfolds.