South Africa have stormed into the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, showcasing unity, resilience, and tactical brilliance in a commanding victory over England. Their seven-wicket win not only knocked England out of the tournament but also ensured the Proteas finished atop Group B, ahead of Australia.
With this triumph, South Africa now await their semi-final opponent, which will be decided based on the result of Sunday’s blockbuster clash between India and New Zealand in Dubai. If India wins, South Africa will face New Zealand in Lahore. However, if New Zealand triumphs, the Proteas will remain in Dubai for a high-stakes showdown against Rohit Sharma’s men.
England’s Disastrous Campaign Ends in Embarrassment
For England, this tournament has been nothing short of a nightmare. Coming into the Champions Trophy on the back of a 3-0 series loss against India, their struggles continued with consecutive defeats to Australia and Afghanistan. Their final group-stage match against South Africa was an opportunity to salvage some pride, but it instead ended in another humiliating performance.
READ MORE: Australia Qualify for Semi-Finals After Rain-Interrupted Clash with Afghanistan
Batting first, England crumbled under pressure, folding for a meager 179 in just 38.2 overs. The top order struggled to handle South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack, and despite brief resistance from Harry Brook and Sam Curran, the innings never gained momentum.
Adding to their woes, England were dealing with the fallout of Jos Buttler’s sudden resignation as white-ball captain on Friday. The leadership vacuum and lack of confidence were evident as the English batters played tentative, error-prone cricket. Head coach Brendon McCullum did not shy away from admitting his side’s shortcomings:
“We weren’t able to withstand the pressure when it was applied, and we lacked confidence. What we saw tonight was a prime example of why we’re out of the tournament.”
Proteas’ All-Round Brilliance on Display
Unlike England’s lackluster display, South Africa exhibited composure and tactical intelligence throughout the match. Even without regular captain Temba Bavuma, who was ruled out due to illness, and Aiden Markram, who had to leave the field in the 26th over with a hamstring strain, the team functioned seamlessly.
Marco Jansen emerged as one of the key figures in the contest. The tall left-arm pacer dismissed three England batters early on, setting the tone for a dominant bowling performance. His spectacular running catch at deep midwicket to dismiss Harry Brook was one of the highlights of the match. Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj also contributed with crucial breakthroughs, ensuring England never got a chance to recover.
Lungi Ngidi, who took a brilliant diving catch to remove Jamie Overton, emphasized the team’s commitment in the field. Despite a few sloppy moments, South Africa’s energy and sharp execution kept England under constant pressure.
Van der Dussen and Klaasen Anchor the Chase
Chasing a modest target of 180, South Africa never looked troubled. Quinton de Kock fell early, but Rassie van der Dussen (72* off 87) and Heinrich Klaasen (64 off 56) put on a match-winning 127-run partnership to ensure a smooth ride to victory.
Klaasen continued his rich vein of form, becoming only the third South African—after Quinton de Kock and Jonty Rhodes—to score five consecutive ODI half-centuries. His aggressive stroke play took the pressure off Van der Dussen, who played a composed knock, guiding the team home in the 26th over.
This dominant chase further highlighted South Africa’s balanced approach in the tournament. With a strong bowling attack and a batting unit in prime form, they will enter the semi-finals with immense confidence.
What’s Next for South Africa?
With their semi-final berth secured, South Africa will now travel to Dubai to keep their options open. If India wins against New Zealand, the Proteas will then fly to Lahore for a clash against the Kiwis. However, if New Zealand upsets India, South Africa will remain in Dubai to take on the Men in Blue in what promises to be an epic semi-final.
Marco Jansen, when asked about the travel plans, took it in stride, saying:
“I don’t mind it. It’s a short flight. Besides, I haven’t played golf in a long time.”
With their squad clicking at the right time, South Africa are now serious contenders for the title. Whether they face India or New Zealand, one thing is clear: this team is here to win.
