LAHORE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has provided a major update on the fitness of star batter Aiden Markram ahead of their crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash against New Zealand at the Gaddafi Stadium here on Wednesday.
Markram, who was leading South Africa in the absence of regular skipper Temba Bavuma, experienced hamstring discomfort during the team’s final group-stage match against England on Saturday.
The middle-order batter walked off the field during England’s innings, handing over the leadership duties to wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen.
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The development was first confirmed on the broadcast during the 31st over of England’s innings, raising concerns over Markram’s availability for the knockout stage.
As a precautionary measure, CSA called up spin-bowling all-rounder George Linde as a backup option.
However, the latest update brings relief for the Proteas camp as Aiden Markram has passed his fitness test and is available for selection in the high-stakes semi-final against the Black Caps.
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It’s worth noting that South Africa kicked off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan, rolling them out for 208 in pursuit of 316.
Their second fixture against Australia in Rawalpindi was completely washed out due to rain, but they sealed their semi-final berth in style with a seven-wicket thumping of England, chasing down 180 with ease.
With Markram fit and South Africa in top form, the Proteas will be aiming to make their first Champions Trophy final since 1998.
South Africa Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen.
Travelling Reserve: George Linde.
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