Karachi (Web Desk): South Africa cruised into the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy with a dominant seven-wicket victory over a dismal England side in Karachi on Saturday.
England, opting to bat first, were bowled out for just 179 in 38.2 overs, with South Africa easily chasing down the target in 30.1 overs, thanks to a solid 127-run third-wicket partnership between Heinrich Klaasen (64) and Rassie van der Dussen (72*). The Proteas wrapped up the win with 125 balls to spare, finishing at 181/3.
The result confirmed South Africa’s top spot in Group B, alongside Australia, India, and New Zealand, all of whom have secured their places in the semi-finals.
England’s defeat, already out of contention for the next stage, brought an end to Jos Buttler's tenure as captain, with the side failing to win a single game in the group stage.
England's batting was lackluster, with only Joe Root (37) and a brief cameo from Ben Duckett (24) showing any resistance. Wiaan Mulder’s 3-wicket haul (3/25) and consistent support from the other bowlers, who kept the pressure on with disciplined lines, ensured England never really got going.
Despite an early setback when South Africa lost Tristan Stubbs for a duck, Klaasen and van der Dussen controlled the chase with a mature and calculated stand.
Klaasen, known for his aggressive strokeplay, was in excellent form, while van der Dussen anchored the innings with composure.
England’s bowlers, led by Jofra Archer (2/55), tried to break the partnership, but the pair never allowed the required run rate to mount. South Africa’s victory was complete with plenty of overs to spare, showing their superiority in all departments.
In a worrying turn for the Proteas, there were concerns about Aiden Markram, who had to leave the field with a hamstring injury, though the team will be hoping it’s not a serious issue.
South Africa also played the match without regular captain Temba Bavuma and opening batter Tony de Zorzi, who missed out due to illness. As the tournament heats up, South Africa will look to tighten their game further, especially with the semi-finals just around the corner.
Teams
England: Philip Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith(w), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler(c), Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood
South Africa: Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram(c), Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
