England’s struggles in the Champions Trophy continued as they suffered a crushing defeat against South Africa after opting to bat first in Karachi, the tournament’s most high-scoring venue. However, their approach suggested otherwise. England collapsed to the lowest total of the competition, undone by reckless strokeplay and South Africa’s sharp fielding. Despite missing key players due to illness and injury, South Africa dominated with both ball and bat, sealing a convincing victory and gaining momentum heading into the knockout stage.
South Africa’s Bowlers Shine in England’s Batting Debacle
South Africa’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Marco Jansen, dismantled England early. Jansen removed the first three batters, continuing his impressive form. Keshav Maharaj controlled the middle overs effectively, while Wiaan Mulder wrapped up the tail. England, already eliminated from the tournament and playing under the cloud of Jos Buttler’s captaincy resignation, showed early aggression but lacked discipline.
Phil Salt set the tone with a boundary-laden start but perished in an attempt to pull Jansen, managing just 30 runs in the tournament. Ben Duckett followed with a promising cameo but fell in a similar fashion. Jamie Smith’s dismissal left England reeling at 37/3 within seven overs.
Joe Root and Harry Brook built a 62-run partnership, briefly stabilizing England. However, Jansen’s brilliance continued as he took a stunning catch to dismiss Brook. Soon after, Root misjudged a flick off Mulder, and his back pad deflected the ball onto the stumps, deepening England’s woes.
Buttler’s Final Innings as Captain Ends in Disappointment
With England struggling at 99/5, Jos Buttler, in his last innings as captain, carried hopes of a revival. However, his efforts were cut short when Maharaj outfoxed Liam Livingstone, who was stumped after charging down the track. England’s lower order crumbled, with Rabada, Ngidi, and Maharaj ensuring a swift end to their innings at just 39 overs. England’s total was further marred by outstanding fielding efforts from South Africa, including a one-handed stunner by Ngidi.
South Africa’s Chase: Confident and Controlled
With semi-final qualification already secured, South Africa approached their chase confidently. Despite an early hiccup when Tristan Stubbs played onto his stumps off Jofra Archer, the Proteas remained composed. Archer bowled with good pace, claiming a second wicket by clean bowling Ryan Rickelton.
From there, Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen took control. While Klaasen dominated through the covers, van der Dussen worked the leg-side effectively. Klaasen reached his fifty off 41 balls, marking his fifth consecutive half-century, a record-equalling feat for South Africa. Van der Dussen brought up his half-century off 72 balls, further solidifying South Africa’s chase.
Klaasen fell attempting to clear fine leg but outside-edged to short third, paving the way for David Miller to finish the match in style. Miller smashed Livingstone for six over the sightscreen to seal a comprehensive victory.
South Africa March Into Semi-Finals
This victory marks South Africa’s third consecutive tournament knockout qualification following the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their semi-final opponent and venue will be determined after India’s clash with New Zealand. If India loses, South Africa will face them in Dubai on Tuesday; otherwise, they will meet New Zealand in Lahore on Wednesday.
For England, this loss further highlights their tournament struggles, while South Africa carries positive momentum into the crucial semi-finals.