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

Highlights

• Anthems were sung prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing song earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with each team fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team secured the toss and chose to bowl. Skipper NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13)

NSB brought herself on in place of Bell. No boundaries were given away, due to some agile fielding from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was sent to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

5th Over: South Africa 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Tazmin Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits a dismissal, however the fielding effort by NSB missed the stumps. She then responded by smashing a ball outside off past cover for four. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show the English team are the best fielding side in the tournament.

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

A possible catch went begging. Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, with the lights were switched on. Smith seemed in better rhythm compared to earlier games but bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, hitting the first ball with style past cover for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for another boundary. Bell adjusted her length, yielding only a single from a wide.

Pre-Match Build-Up

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

The two sides have experienced mixed performances throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. History shows that England 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 targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as the match progresses.