🔗 Share this article

The highly anticipated knockout match featuring the English side and the South African team at the Women's World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with South Africa's uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were revealed and both sides naming competitive lineups.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

7th Over: South Africa 41-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 24, Brits 13)

NSB took over the bowling to replace Lauren Bell. Zero fours were conceded, thanks to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35-0 (Wolvaardt 22, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was sent to the off-side boundary, and then another poor delivery through cover point.

5th Over: The Proteas 27-0 (Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Tazmin Brits her wicket, but the fielding effort by Nat Sciver-Brunt wasn't on target. She then replied by smashing a ball outside off through the covers for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a sharp delivery which rose past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate that England have the top fielding record in this competition.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Brits hammered a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew for four runs.

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

Overcast conditions hovered over Guwahati, and the floodlights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet bowled a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: The Proteas 9 for no wicket (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with the new ball. Wolvaardt seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. A subsequent loose ball was cut for four more runs. The bowler adjusted her length, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Pre-Match Build-Up

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", promising more bounce and help for the seamers.

Both teams have experienced mixed performances in the competition so far. The English team are considered favourites, however South Africa have the potential of springing a surprise. History shows that England have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The stakes are high as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as this thrilling encounter unfolds.