Champions Trophy: Australia and South Africa Battle for Semifinal Spot in Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi (Pakistan), Feb 24 (NationPress) The current World Champions Australia are set to face off against South Africa in a much-anticipated encounter during the Champions Trophy 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Both teams are coming off impressive victories in their opening matches, making this clash pivotal in determining the Group B standings.

Australia showcased their prowess early in the tournament by successfully chasing down a challenging 352-run target against England in Lahore, winning by five wickets. Meanwhile, South Africa demonstrated their strength with a commanding 107-run win over Afghanistan in Karachi. With both teams riding high on momentum, they will aim to solidify their positions in the race for the semifinals.

Despite missing several key players from their 2023 World Cup-winning squad, Australia's initial performance indicated they remain formidable. Captain Pat Cummins and fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc are absent due to injuries or personal matters, and the unexpected retirement of Marcus Stoinis has left their all-round options limited.

Nevertheless, Australia discovered match-winners in their first outing, with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis shining with a remarkable century.

Veteran Steve Smith is expected to play a crucial role at the top of the order, especially with Marnus Labuschagne anchoring the middle order. The pitch in Rawalpindi is anticipated to favor aggressive stroke play, aligning perfectly with Australia's dynamic style. On the bowling front, Ben Dwarshuis made an impressive debut against England and could be essential in the absence of experienced pacers.

South Africa’s dominant performance against Afghanistan highlighted their championship potential, with Ryan Rickelton standing out as a key player.

The young opener not only scored a century but also took on wicketkeeping duties in the absence of Heinrich Klaasen, who is doubtful for this match due to an elbow injury. If Klaasen is unavailable, Rickelton will again have to manage both roles.

The surface in Rawalpindi has traditionally been a batting-friendly venue, offering good bounce and pace early on. However, as the match progresses, spinners may find some assistance, making the middle overs crucial.

Dew could play a significant role under lights, possibly influencing the captain's decision to bowl first if they win the toss, allowing them to capitalize on improved chasing conditions later.

Recent ODI fixtures at this location have featured high scores and successful chases, adding excitement to the match.

Australia and South Africa have a storied rivalry in the 50-over format, with the Proteas holding a slight advantage in their encounters. Out of 110 ODIs between the two teams, South Africa has claimed 55 victories, while Australia has triumphed 51 times. Three matches have ended in ties, and one had no result.

When: February 25, Tuesday

Where: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

Time: The match is set to commence at 2:30 pm IST, with the toss taking place at 2 pm.

Broadcast details: The match will be aired on Star Sports Network.

Live Streaming: The match can be streamed live on JioHotstar.

Squads:

Australia: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.

Traveling reserve: Cooper Connolly.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch.

Traveling reserve: Kwena Maphaka.