England’s decision to bat first after winning the toss in their 2025 ICC Champions Trophy match against South Africa is proving to be a difficult one as they face a tough challenge in Karachi.
At 159/7 after 32.4 overs, England’s innings has faltered, with the team struggling to build partnerships and losing wickets at regular intervals.
The top order was quickly dismantled with Phil Salt (8), Ben Duckett (24), and Jamie Smith (0) all departing cheaply.
Joe Root (37) and Harry Brook (19) provided brief resistance, but both players were dismissed before they could push on for bigger scores.
The middle order fared no better, as Liam Livingstone (9) and Jamie Overton (11) were also sent back to the pavilion by some sharp, disciplined bowling from South Africa.
Marco Jansen has been the standout performer, picking up three wickets, while Keshav Maharaj and Wiaan Mulder have also contributed with key breakthroughs.
The team will need a strong finish to set a competitive total. South Africa’s bowlers will be keen to wrap up the remaining wickets and capitalize on their dominance in the match.
The encounter, which is the eleventh of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, is currently ongoing at the National Bank Cricket Stadium in Karachi.
In terms of head-to-head statistics, England and South Africa have faced off 70 times in ODIs. South Africa holds a slight edge with 34 victories, while England has won 30 times.
The two teams have also seen five matches end without a result, and one match was tied.
When it comes to the ICC Champions Trophy, England and South Africa have clashed on four occasions.
Both teams have won two matches each in this prestigious competition, showcasing the competitive nature of their encounters.
With the toss in their favour, England will look to build a solid total, while South Africa will aim to chase it down and take an important step towards the semifinals.
Playing XIs
South Africa:
Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram(c), Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
England:
Philip Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith(w), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler(c), Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood
