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The much-awaited knockout match between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Guwahati. The English squad won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10 runs)

The South African opener, who is in fine form, hit two consecutive boundaries from Smith. A full toss was dispatched 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 nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the fielding effort from NSB missed the stumps. She then responded by smashing a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

4th Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Even with the earlier chance, reports indicate that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

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

A half-chance was not taken. Brits hammered a delivery toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

Second Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 1)

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery that Wolvaardt hit hard to the off-side boundary for four.

First Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The playing surface reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, which should offer extra bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

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

Keep following for further developments as the match progresses.