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The eagerly awaited knockout match featuring England and South Africa at the Women's World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England won the toss and chose to field first, hoping to put pressure on their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's uplifting anthem earning praise.
• Team Lineups were revealed with each team naming strong lineups.
• England secured the toss and chose to bowl. Captain NSB stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part despite a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

NSB took over the bowling in place of Lauren Bell. Zero fours were given away, thanks to quick work in the field by Beaumont on the boundary.

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

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck back-to-back boundaries off Linsey Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by another poor delivery through the covers.

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

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Brits her wicket, however the throw by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. Brits then responded by smashing a wide delivery through the covers to the boundary. Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Wolvaardt 13 runs, Brits 6)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England are the best fielding side in this competition.

Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

A half-chance was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a delivery toward Bell, that raced to the boundary.

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

Cloudy skies hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights were switched on. Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

1st Over: South Africa 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. Wolvaardt immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. A subsequent loose ball was slashed for four more runs. The bowler then tightened her line, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and assistance for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are seen as the front-runners, but South Africa are capable of springing a surprise. History shows the English side have won both previous semi-final meetings between the sides.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for further developments as this thrilling encounter unfolds.