🔗 Share this article

The highly anticipated knockout match between England and the South African team in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, aiming to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Notable Events

• National anthems were performed prior to the start, with South Africa's rousing song receiving acclaim.
• Team Lineups were announced with both sides fielding strong elevens.
• England won the toss and decided to field. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt stressed the need for sticking to their plans.
• Sophie Ecclestone is fit to take part even with a bit of pain.

In-Play Action

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

Nat Sciver-Brunt brought herself on to replace Lauren Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to some agile fielding by Tammy Beaumont on the boundary.

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

The South African opener, who is in fine form, struck two consecutive fours off Linsey Smith. One full-pitched delivery was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through the covers.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A brief mix-up almost resulted in Tazmin Brits her wicket, however the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. She then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover for four. Lauren Bell ended the over with a well-pitched ball that bounced past the bat.

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

Linsey Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the previous opportunity, statistics show that England have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 5)

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

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

Cloudy skies covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith appeared more comfortable compared to earlier games yet served up a loose delivery which Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for a boundary.

First Over: South Africa 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0)

Bell started the innings with a fresh cherry. The South African batter immediately took advantage, driving the initial delivery elegantly through the covers for a boundary. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different compared to the previous track in the earlier match. It's been called a "red soil pitch", which should offer more bounce and help for fast bowlers.

Both teams have had mixed performances throughout the tournament. England are seen as the front-runners, but the Proteas have the potential to cause an upset. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes between the sides.

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

Keep following for more updates as the match progresses.