Picture Credit: X
After India secured a berth in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final, beating Australia by four wickets in the first semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday, March 4, Group B table-toppers, South Africa will take on New Zealand in the second semi-final, set to be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. A winner of this clash will seal the second berth in the final, scheduled to be played on Sunday, March 9 in Dubai.
Ahead of the second semi-final, the Proteas men were handed a boost as Aiden Markram, who had experienced soreness in his hamstring and subsequently left the field during South Africa’s match against England on March 1 has been declared fit. On the eve of the second semi-final, South Africa Cricket confirmed his development.
Aiden Markram to play vs New Zealand in Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final
Markram, who was doubtful for the game, on Tuesday, March 4 passed the fitness test and is available for selection. "Aiden Markram has passed his fitness test and is available for selection for the semi-final against New Zealand on Wednesday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore," Proteas said in a statement on X.
Earlier, seeing Markram doubtful for the knockout match, South Africa had called up spinning all-rounder George Linde as his cover to Pakistan. Apart from Markram, the side is also dealing with fitness concerns surrounding skipper Temba Bavuma, who missed their last group stage match due to illness. Speaking about Bavuma, coach Rob Waltler also shared an update on Bavuma’s fitness adding that he is fit.
South Africa’s ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad
Temba Bavuma (c), Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, and Rassie van der Dussen.
Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka
