South Africa stormed into the 2025 Champions Trophy semifinals with a commanding performance, dismantling England for just 179 in 38.2 overs. A stellar bowling display led by Wiaan Mulder (3-25), Marco Jansen (3-39), and Keshav Maharaj (2-35) exposed England’s frailties and secured the Proteas’ spot in the knockout stage, where they will face either India or New Zealand.

England Falter Under Pressure

With only pride at stake, England aimed to end their campaign on a high, but their batting unit faltered yet again. In his final match as England’s white-ball captain, Jos Buttler chose to bat first, hoping to capitalize on South Africa’s recent success at the venue. However, his decision backfired as England crumbled against South Africa’s relentless attack.

Jansen provided the early breakthrough, removing Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, and Ben Duckett in quick succession. Salt’s PowerPlay struggles continued as he top-edged a pull shot to Rassie van der Dussen. Duckett momentarily counterattacked with consecutive boundaries off Lungi Ngidi but soon perished, miscuing a shot to Jansen. Smith followed suit, failing to control a short ball that found Aiden Markram at mid-on.

South Africa’s Bowlers Tighten the Noose

Joe Root and Harry Brook attempted to rebuild, guiding England to 62/3 after 10 overs. Brook took on Kagiso Rabada, while Root looked to unsettle Jansen. However, the revival was short-lived. Jansen showcased his all-round brilliance with a superb sprinting catch at long-on to dismiss Brook. Shortly after, Wiaan Mulder trapped Root plumb in front, further denting England’s resistance.

Keshav Maharaj then spun a web around England’s middle order. Liam Livingstone charged down the track in desperation but was outfoxed by Maharaj’s flight and dip, leading to a simple stumping. England’s struggles deepened as Jamie Overton miscued a big shot, only for Ngidi to pull off a spectacular running catch.

England’s Late Resistance Falls Short

Jofra Archer and Buttler attempted to push England past 200, but South Africa’s sharp fielding and disciplined bowling didn’t let up. Jansen took a sharp reflex catch at mid-wicket to send Archer back, and the final wickets tumbled quickly as England collapsed from 171/8 to 179 all-out in the 39th over.

With an emphatic victory, South Africa confirmed their semifinal berth, setting up an exciting clash against either India or New Zealand in the knockout stage.

Brief Scores: England 179 in 38.2 overs (Joe Root 37; Wiaan Mulder 3-25, Marco Jansen 3-39, Keshav Maharaj 2-35) vs South Africa.