The highly anticipated South Africa vs England match in the Champions Trophy 2025 got underway today at the National Stadium in Karachi. This match is crucial for South Africa, as they must secure a victory to book their place in the semifinals. A loss could put their knockout stage hopes in jeopardy, depending on other results.

Meanwhile, England have already been eliminated from the tournament after suffering defeats in their previous matches. However, they will be looking to end their campaign on a high note and spoil South Africa’s chances by securing a morale-boosting victory.

Fans left surprised as Temba Bavuma misses out on toss

A surprising moment occurred at the toss when Aiden Markram stepped in instead of regular captain Temba Bavuma to represent South Africa. Fans were quick to notice Bavuma’s absence and speculated whether he had been dropped, injured, or unavailable for another reason.

On England’s side, Jos Buttler led the team despite announcing his resignation as England’s white-ball captain. His appearance at the toss marked his final match as England’s ODI and T20I skipper.

Buttler won the toss and elected to bat first, citing the conditions as suitable for batting. He also reflected on his decision to step down as captain, expressing a mix of emotions about leading England one last time.

“We are gonna bat first today, looks like a decent wicket, a few cracks there. I felt like it was time, so I didn’t want to take more time to take that decision. It was an easy decision, and I will do it for one last time. Hopefully, we can do well. A bit of sadness as well—it’s an honour to captain your country,” said Buttler at the toss.

Also READ: 3 players who can become England’s next white-ball captain after Jos Buttler’s resignation

Aiden Markram reveals the reason behind Bavuma’s absence

After the toss, Markram, who is leading South Africa in Bavuma’s absence, addressed the situation and clarified why the Proteas skipper was not playing.

Markram revealed that both Bavuma and top-order batter Tony de Zorzi were ruled out due to illness. This forced South Africa to make changes to their playing XI.

“We are actually happy to chase, haven’t chased in this comp yet. Two guys have had illness around the camp—Tony and Temba miss out. Unfortunate that they miss out, but hopefully, they will recover,” said Markram.

With Bavuma missing, Markram now shoulders the responsibility of leading South Africa in a do-or-die encounter. The Proteas will need to step up and deliver under pressure to keep their Champions Trophy 2025 hopes alive.

Also READ: South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen highlights India’s advantage in Dubai during Champions Trophy 2025

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