Confident South Africa storm into Champions Trophy Semi-Finals

Uncategorized , / Saturday, March 1st, 2025

RKI Network

South Africa secured their place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals with a dominant seven-wicket win over England, topping Group B alongside Australia, India, and New Zealand. The final fixture line-up will be confirmed after India faces New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.

Keshav Maharaj emphasized the team’s motivation and belief in their ability to break South Africa’s long-standing ICC ODI title drought since 1998. “Those were past generations. We are a new team and have achieved significant success,” Maharaj said. “We’ve reached the semi-finals of the last ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup final. Now, we’re focused on the next challenge.”

England, already eliminated before the match, struggled after winning the toss and electing to bat. Their batting faltered on a decent surface, folding for just 179 in 38.2 overs. Joe Root top-scored with 37 before being bowled by Wiaan Mulder (3-25), while Jos Buttler managed 21 in his final match as England captain. Ben Duckett (24) and Jofra Archer (25) made brief contributions, but the innings lacked momentum.

South Africa’s chase was straightforward despite an early hiccup. Tristan Stubbs fell for a duck, edging Archer (2-55) onto his stumps. However, Heinrich Klaasen (64) and Rassie van der Dussen (72*) guided the Proteas home with a commanding 127-run partnership. Van der Dussen’s measured knock off 87 balls, including three sixes, ensured a comfortable finish with 125 balls to spare.

Despite the win, South Africa faces fitness concerns ahead of the semi-finals. Aiden Markram limped off with a hamstring injury, while Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi missed the match due to illness.

Meanwhile, Australia booked their semi-final spot after persistent rain in Lahore forced their game against Afghanistan to be abandoned. South Africa, having played a tri-series against New Zealand and Pakistan before the tournament, will now aim to end their 26-year ICC ODI title drought.