South Africa stormed into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals with a dominant seven-wicket win over England in Karachi. First, Wiaan Mulder (3-25) and Marco Jansen (3-39) dismantled England’s batting, bowling them out for just 179 in 38.2 overs. Then, South Africa comfortably chased the target, reaching 182/3 in just 29.1 overs.
As a result, South Africa secured the top spot in Group B with five points, one ahead of Australia. Both teams advanced to the semi-finals. Meanwhile, from Group A, India and New Zealand also qualified. They will face off in Dubai on Sunday to finalize the semi-final matchups.
England’s Tournament Ends in Disaster
Unfortunately for England, this defeat marked their third consecutive loss. Previously, they had fallen to Australia and Afghanistan. Since their elimination was confirmed even before this match, they had little motivation left. To make matters worse, captain Jos Buttler stepped down after the game.
Semi-Final Schedule and Venues
Moving forward, the India-New Zealand clash will determine the semi-final fixtures. The first semi-final will take place on March 4 in Dubai, while the second will be held in Lahore on March 5. Due to political tensions, India will play in Dubai regardless of their position in the group.
If India reaches the final, it will be played in Dubai on March 9. Otherwise, Lahore will host the final.
Van der Dussen and Klaasen Lead South Africa to Victory
At first, Jofra Archer gave England hope. He dismissed Tristan Stubbs for a duck and Ryan Rickelton for 27, reducing South Africa to 47/2. However, Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen quickly turned the game around. Their solid 127-run partnership ensured South Africa’s smooth chase.
Moreover, Klaasen played aggressively, smashing 64 off 56 balls with 11 boundaries. Although Adil Rashid dismissed him when only five runs were needed, David Miller finished the job in style with a six.
Meanwhile, Rassie van der Dussen remained unbeaten on 72 off 87 balls, hitting three sixes and six boundaries. On the other hand, Archer finished with 2-55, while Rashid took 1-37.
England’s Batting Collapses Again
Earlier, England crumbled after choosing to bat first. Right from the start, Jansen dominated. He removed Phil Salt (8), Jamie Smith (0), and Ben Duckett (24) in a fiery five-over spell.
Soon after, Joe Root tried to steady the innings, top-scoring with 37. However, Mulder bowled him out, causing further trouble. Then, Harry Brook (19) fell as Jansen took a stunning diving catch at long-on off Maharaj’s bowling. Shortly after, Liam Livingstone (9) also departed, making England’s situation worse.
Although Buttler (21) and Archer (25) put up a 42-run stand for the eighth wicket, England’s collapse continued. Once Mulder dismissed Archer, their last three wickets fell for just eight runs.
South Africa Overcome Injury Setbacks
Despite these challenges, South Africa secured a convincing win. However, they faced setbacks before and during the match. Regular captain Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi missed the game due to illness. Meanwhile, stand-in skipper Aiden Markram also left the field with a hamstring injury.
Even so, South Africa’s all-round performance proved too strong for England. With this win, they march confidently into the semi-finals.