South Africa Storm Into Champions Trophy Semifinals After Crushing England

South Africa have secured their place in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals.

In his final match as England's captain, Jos Buttler’s side suffered a major batting collapse.

Source : @ProteasMenCSA / X

SA vs ENG highlights: A clinical bowling performance from Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder propelled South Africa to a thumping seven-wicket win over England at the National Stadium in Karachi on Saturday (March 1), securing the fourth and final spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals. South Africa finish as toppers of Group B.

The team that loses Sunday's IND vs NZ league match will face South Africa in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal, while the winner will top Group A and set up a semifinal clash against Australia.

Chasing 180, South Africa had an early setback as opener Tristan Stubbs departed without scoring. Ryan Rickelton and Rassie van der Dussen steadied the innings before Rickelton fell for 27.

Van der Dussen then built a match-winning century stand with Heinrich Klaasen, who played a knock of 64 off 56 balls, smashing 11 fours. Van der Dussen remained unbeaten on 72, guiding South Africa to an easy win. England's Jofra Archer was the only bowler to make an impact, claiming two wickets for 55 runs.

England crumbles under pressure, bowled out before 40 overs 

England, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, struggled against South Africa's disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for just 179 in 38.1 overs. With a modest target of 180 runs, South Africa were always well-positioned to continue its winning streak.

England's batting crumbles against Proteas 

In his final match as England's captain, Jos Buttler’s side suffered a major batting collapse. Joe Root top-scored with 37 runs, while Ben Duckett (24), Buttler (21), and Jofra Archer (25) made brief contributions, but England failed to build any substantial partnerships.

South Africa's bowling attack was ruthless. Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder led the charge, picking up three wickets each, with figures of 3/39 and 3/25, respectively. Keshav Maharaj took two crucial wickets, while Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada chipped in with one each.

South Africa secures Semifinal spot

South Africa have secured their place in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals. Notably, captain Temba Bavuma is absent from the playing XI, with Aiden Markram leading the side in his place.