Champions Trophy: Markram Praises Team's Adaptability on Slower Pitch
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In Karachi, South Africa's Aiden Markram praised his team's adaptability after a seven-wicket victory over England in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Despite a slower pitch than anticipated, the team excelled, with standout performances from Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen, who each took three wickets, and a solid batting display from Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen.
Key Takeaways
- South Africa secured semifinal spot in 2025 Champions Trophy.
- Captain Aiden Markram highlighted team's adaptability.
- Pace all-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen excelled with three wickets each.
- Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen led the chase.
- Markram noted the pitch was slower than expected.
Karachi, March 1 (NationPress) Following South Africa's triumph over England by seven wickets, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy, captain Aiden Markram highlighted how well the team adjusted to the conditions, noting that the pitch was significantly slower than anticipated. The victory at the National Stadium positioned South Africa as Group B leaders, supported by pace all-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen, who each claimed three wickets, dismissing England for a mere 179 all out in 38.2 overs.
The chase was spearheaded by Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen, who contributed with scores of 72 not out and 64, respectively, forming a crucial partnership of 127 runs off 122 balls as South Africa completed the task in just 29.1 overs.
"I thought the boys performed exceptionally well," Markram stated. "The wicket was rather sluggish, slower than we had expected. The boys adapted superbly. They maintained their lengths for as long as possible and we consistently took wickets throughout," said Markram, who exited the field with a mild hamstring issue as a precaution during the post-match presentation.
Regarding Jansen and Klaasen's performances, Markram commented, "Jansen has been pivotal for us. We know that in the power-play, especially in these conditions, it's crucial to take wickets early. He's been peaking at the right moments for us. It's always fantastic to see Klaasen performing so well; he has been in phenomenal form over the last several months."
When asked about potential changes if South Africa faces India in the semifinal in Dubai, Markram replied, "We'll evaluate the situation based on the conditions. We have a talented squad with numerous options. Each player's role is supported by Temba and the coaching staff."
Jansen, awarded Player of the Match for his dismissals of Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, and Ben Duckett during the initial power-play, expressed satisfaction with his performance. "It feels great. The team has worked diligently. Bowling conditions were challenging. I’m pleased with how it turned out. There was no swing, which was somewhat disappointing, but I’m happy with my contribution."
When asked about his excellent catches, including one off Harry Brook, Jansen remarked, "I simply saw the ball going up and reacted without overthinking it. I aimed to position myself as close to the ball as possible, and fortunately, I managed to get there easily. Now, I’m just looking forward to resting! We’ll take things as they come tomorrow. For now, let’s celebrate this win."
