Champions Trophy: South Africa vs England: Pitch, Weather Report & Playing XI

With no rain expected in Karachi, England look to salvage pride as South Africa eye a semi-final spot in the final Group B clash.

March 1, 2025: Karachi Set for a High-Scoring South Africa vs England Clash in Champions Trophy 2025

South Africa and England are set to face off in the final Group B match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at National Bank Stadium, Karachi, on March 1 (Saturday). While South Africa are virtually through to the semi-finals, England have already been eliminated, making this a contest of pride for the Three Lions. Jos Buttler’s recent announcement to step down as white-ball captain adds an extra layer of intrigue to England’s final game.

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa Eye Semi-Final Spot as England Look to Salvage Pride

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Pitch Report: Batters Paradise in Karachi

The Karachi pitch has been a batting paradise in the Champions Trophy 2025. New Zealand posted 320 in their first game at this venue, and South Africa comfortably scored 315 in their previous outing here. Given the flat nature of the track, batters can expect another high-scoring game, while bowlers, especially spinners, will have to be crafty in their approach.

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa vs England– When & Where to Watch

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Weather Report: No Rain in Sight for Karachi Clash

While rain has wreaked havoc in three out of the last five Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the South Africa vs England match in Karachi will not be affected. According to AccuWeather, there is zero chance of rainfall, with sunny conditions during the day and clear skies in the evening. This is a welcome relief after multiple washed-out games in Lahore.

Also Read: Champions Trophy: Updated Points Table After Australia Afghanistan Rain Washed Out Match

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Predicted Playing XI

England:

1. Phil Salt
2. Ben Duckett
3. Jamie Smith (wk)
4. Joe Root
5. Harry Brook
6. Jos Buttler (c)
7. Liam Livingstone
8. Jamie Overton
9. Jofra Archer
10. Adil Rashid
11. Mark Wood

South Africa:

1. Ryan Rickelton (wk)
2. Temba Bavuma (c)
3. Rassie van der Dussen
4. Aiden Markram
5. Heinrich Klaasen
6. David Miller
7. Wiaan Mulder
8. Marco Jansen
9. Keshav Maharaj
10. Kagiso Rabada
11. Lungi Ngidi

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Key Match Insights

• South Africa’s Qualification:
  • Even a narrow defeat will likely be enough for South Africa to qualify for the semi-finals.
  • England must win by at least 207 runs to impact the Proteas’ qualification, an unlikely scenario.
• England’s Pride at Stake:
  • After back-to-back defeats, England will aim to end their campaign on a high.
  • With Jos Buttler stepping down as captain, this match marks the end of an era for England’s white-ball team.

With clear weather and a high-scoring track, the final Group B clash promises an exciting battle between an in-form South Africa and a desperate England side looking to bow out with a win.

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