NEW DELHI: South Africa advanced into the Champions Trophy semifinals in dominant fashion by defeating England by seven wickets to top Group B on Saturday.
England elected to bat first but were bundled out for 179 in 38.2 overs as South Africa’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance.
With this modest target securing their semifinal berth by the innings break, the Proteas comfortably chased it down in 29.1 overs, finishing with five points—two more than Australia.
They will now face the Group A runners-up in the semifinals, while India and New Zealand are set to battle for Group A positions in Dubai on Sunday.
Rassie van der Dussen anchored the chase with a composed 72 not out off 86 balls (scoring 6 fours and 3 sixes), while Heinrich Klaasen, returning from injury, smashed a fluent 64 off 56 balls (with 11 fours) in a 127-run partnership.
