Champions Trophy: Klassen to Lead SA Following Markram's Hamstring Injury

Synopsis

In the ongoing 2025 Champions Trophy, wicketkeeper Heinrich Klassen steps in as captain for South Africa against England as Aiden Markram is sidelined due to a right hamstring issue. This change comes at a crucial time as South Africa aims for a semifinals berth.

Key Takeaways

Heinrich Klassen has taken over as captain for South Africa.
Aiden Markram is out due to a right hamstring injury.
This match is critical for South Africa's semifinals chances.
Australia has already qualified for the semifinals.
England has been eliminated from the tournament.

Karachi, March 1 (NationPress) Wicketkeeper Heinrich Klassen will take over as captain for South Africa in their ongoing 2025 Champions Trophy Group B clash against England on Saturday, as Aiden Markram is unable to continue due to a right hamstring injury.

Broadcast footage from the match at the National Stadium in Karachi showed Markram leaving the field shortly after executing a remarkable diving stop at mid-off. An official update from Cricket South Africa (CSA) verified that Markram will return to lead the Proteas once he is fit.

According to CSA, "Aiden Markram is feeling discomfort in his right hamstring. As a safety measure, he will not participate in fielding for the rest of the innings and may bat only if absolutely necessary. Heinrich Klaasen will take over captaincy for the remainder of the match."

Markram had recently assumed the captaincy of South Africa after regular captain Temba Bavuma and opener Tony de Zorzi were sidelined due to illness. Their absence allowed for Klaasen and Tristan Stubbs to be added to the playing eleven for the encounter against England, which is South Africa's final league match.

Currently in second position in Group B, South Africa must triumph over England to secure their place in the semifinals. Previously, Australia became the first team to qualify for the semifinals after their match against Afghanistan was canceled due to rain at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. England has already been eliminated after defeats to both Australia and Afghanistan.

The semifinal opponents for South Africa and Australia will only be determined on Sunday night after India and New Zealand complete their last Group A match in the eight-team tournament at the Dubai International Stadium. Currently, India is set to compete in their semifinal in Dubai on March 4, while the other last four matchup will take place in Lahore on March 5.