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SA Clinches Semifinal Spot with 7-Wicket Win Over England
Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 72 off 87 balls guided South Africa into the Champions Trophy semifinals with a dominant 7-wicket win over England on Saturday. The Proteas chased down England's total of 179 all out in just 29.1 overs, finishing on 181-3.
England, already eliminated from the tournament following losses to Australia and Afghanistan, chose to bat after winning the toss but were quickly dismantled. Marco Jansen (3-39) and Wiaan Mulder (3-25) spearheaded South Africa’s bowling attack, with England’s batting offering little resistance.
England’s innings faltered early, with Jansen taking three key wickets, including dismissing Phil Salt for 8 and Jamie Smith for a duck. The collapse continued as Ben Duckett fell for 24, leaving England reeling at 37-3. Joe Root (37) tried to stabilize the innings but received little support. Keshav Maharaj (2-35) and Mulder struck again, reducing England to 147-9 before they were all out for 179 in 38.2 overs.
“It was a decent surface, and the boys worked hard,” said Jansen, named Player of the Match. "I used my options well and hit my lengths."
In reply, South Africa’s chase started shakily, with Archer dismissing Tristan Stubbs for a duck and later sending Ryan Rickelton back for 27. However, Van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen (64 off 56 balls) rebuilt the innings with a 127-run partnership. Van der Dussen reached his half-century off 72 balls, including six fours and three sixes, and guided his side home with ease.
England’s dismal exit marks the end of Jos Buttler’s tenure as captain, following disappointing performances in the 2024 T20 World Cup and 2023 Cricket World Cup. Buttler, who announced his resignation on Friday, expressed frustration with the team's ongoing struggles.
South Africa's win knocked Afghanistan out of contention, while Australia, who also qualified from Group B, will face the top team from Group A in the semifinals.