The stage is set for an electrifying clash in the Champions Trophy 2025, with South Africa and New Zealand gearing up to face off in the second semifinal on March 5th at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. As the teams prepare to give it their all, some welcome news has emerged for the Proteas – their formidable batsman and vice-captain, Aiden Markram, has made a full recovery from his injury. Markram had suffered a hamstring strain during the group stage match against England, casting doubts over his participation in the knockout stages. However, Cricket South Africa has confirmed that he has passed his fitness test and will be available for selection for the crucial semifinal encounter against the Black Caps.
This news will undoubtedly boost the morale of the South African team, which has already shown impressive form in the tournament, winning two out of their three group stage matches, with the third being washed out due to rain. The team’s captain, Temba Bavuma, who missed the previous match due to illness, is also expected to make a comeback, further bolstering the team’s chances. Bavuma had been forced to sit out the match against England, with Markram taking over as captain, but he was later substituted due to his injury, and Heinrich Klaasen took over the reins.
As the Proteas look to book their spot in the final, they will be relying on their star players to deliver. The team’s lineup boasts an impressive array of talent, including the likes of Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, and Kagiso Rabada. With Markram’s return to fitness, the team’s batting lineup looks more formidable than ever, and they will be looking to capitalize on this advantage to outmaneuver their opponents.
Here’s a look at the South African squad:
- Temba Bavuma (Captain)
- Quinton de Kock
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Aiden Markram
- Heinrich Klaasen
- David Miller
- Vyaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Tristan Stubbs
- Ryan Rickelton
- Lungi Ngidi
- Corbin Bosch
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, and fans will be eagerly watching to see which team will emerge victorious and book their spot in the final, scheduled to take place on March 9th in Dubai. Will the Proteas be able to overcome the Black Caps and make it to the championship match, or will New Zealand’s fairy tale run continue? Only time will tell.