South Africa’s semi-final hopes on the line as England bat first in Karachi

England won the toss and elected to bat first against South Africa in their final Champions Trophy group-stage match at the National Stadium in Karachi.

While Jos Buttler’s side is already eliminated from the tournament, they are looking to salvage some pride with a strong finish. For South Africa, however, the stakes couldn’t be higher; a victory will confirm their semi-final spot, while a defeat could leave them relying on net run rate.

The Proteas have made two significant changes to their playing XI. Heinrich Klaasen returns to the side after recovering from an elbow injury, replacing Tony de Zorzi in the middle order. Meanwhile, captain Temba Bavuma has been ruled out due to illness, forcing South Africa to reshuffle their leadership.

England captain Jos Buttler during the pre-match training at National Stadium KarachiICC

Aiden Markram will take charge in Bavuma’s absence, while Tristan Stubbs comes into the team to strengthen the batting lineup.

England, on the other hand, have made just one change, with Saqib Mahmood replacing Mark Wood in the pace attack. With their Champions Trophy campaign already over, Buttler’s men will aim to disrupt South Africa’s semi-final ambitions and end their disappointing run on a positive note.

It will be a crucial chase ahead for the Proteas with all eyes on how their bowling unit handles England’s top order in what promises to be a gripping encounter under the Karachi lights.

Playing XIs:

England: Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi