South Africa has included George Linde as a reserve for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against New Zealand, covering for injured Aiden Markram. Markram will undergo a fitness test to confirm if he can play. The team prepared for the match following a rigorous travel schedule, while New Zealand seeks to capitalize on their all-round strength.
South Africa has named left-arm spinning all-rounder George Linde as part of their traveling reserves ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against New Zealand. Linde will serve as a replacement for Aiden Markram, who sustained a hamstring injury during the team’s final group match against England. Markram, who temporarily captained the team in the match, indicated that the team decided not to field or bat with him after the injury, as a precautionary measure.
Linde will not be included in the official squad unless Markram is confirmed unfit. According to reports from ESPNCricinfo, Markram is expected to undergo a fitness test on the day of the match, and a final decision regarding his participation will be made prior to the toss. Should Markram be unable to play, South Africa is expected to retain Tristan Stubbs in the playing eleven, with Temba Bavuma likely returning after illness. Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi missed the game against England due to health issues, allowing Stubbs the chance to open the innings for the team.
Linde will join the squad on Tuesday evening, on the eve of the semi-final. If Markram is ruled out, his absence may disrupt South Africa’s balance, despite his recent performance not requiring him to bowl. Linde demonstrated impressive form during the SA20 2025 tournament, contributing 161 runs with a strike rate of 153.33 and taking 11 wickets at an economy rate of 6.29.
The bowling unit for South Africa will consist of Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, and Wiaan Mulder. In the event that Markram does not play, Stubbs could be called upon to provide part-time off-spin, enhancing the team’s bowling options. Following a challenging journey from Karachi to Dubai and back to Lahore within 24 hours, the team is now prepared to rest, train, and ready themselves for the crucial match against New Zealand.
New Zealand approaches the semi-final after suffering a defeat in their final Group A match against India in Dubai. Nonetheless, they enter the game as favorites due to their all-round depth and the advantage of having played several matches in Pakistan, showcasing their experience in the conditions.
In summary, South Africa has enlisted George Linde as a backup option for Aiden Markram, who is nursing a hamstring injury. Markram’s fitness test will determine his availability for the semi-final against New Zealand, where South Africa must adapt their strategy if he is ruled out. The match is anticipated to be competitive, with New Zealand favored due to their squad depth and experience in the region.
Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com
