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The much-awaited knockout match between England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and chose to field first, aiming to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung before the match, and South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with each team naming strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the importance of trusting the process.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to play even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

7th Over: The Proteas 41-0 (Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive fours off Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the throw by NSB wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a ball outside off through the covers to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose past the bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Even with the earlier chance, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A half-chance went begging. Brits hammered a ball back at Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Linsey Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8 runs, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Lauren Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are considered favourites, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a place in the final.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.