South Africa has added George Linde to the reserves for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final as a potential replacement for the injured Aiden Markram. Markram is to undergo a fitness test, and if unavailable, variations to the team will be made. New Zealand, despite recent defeats, is favored due to their experienced squad and depth.
South Africa has added left-arm spinning all-rounder George Linde to their traveling reserves in preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against New Zealand. Linde is set to serve as a replacement for Aiden Markram, who sustained a hamstring injury during the final group match against England. Markram, who captained the team in that match, indicated that the decision to refrain from batting or fielding was precautionary following his injury.
Linde will not officially join the squad unless Markram is deemed unfit. According to reports from ESPNCricinfo, Markram is scheduled to undergo a fitness test on the day of the match, with a final decision regarding his participation expected to be announced prior to the toss. Should Markram be unable to play, it is anticipated that South Africa will retain Tristan Stubbs in the playing XI, with Temba Bavuma expected to return after missing the England match due to illness.
Linde is expected to arrive with the squad on Tuesday evening, just before the semi-final. Losing Markram could significantly affect South Africa’s balance, despite the fact that he has not been required to bowl in recent matches. Linde performed exceptionally well in the SA20 2025 tournament, playing for MI Cape Town, where he scored 161 runs at an impressive strike rate of 153.33 and took 11 wickets at an economy rate of 6.29.
In terms of bowling, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, and Wiaan Mulder are set to feature as the five bowlers. Should Markram be ruled out, Stubbs may be called upon to contribute with his part-time off-spin bowling. South Africa has faced a challenging journey, having traveled from Karachi to Dubai and back to Lahore within 24 hours, yet the team has recently enjoyed a few days to rest and prepare for this crucial match.
New Zealand, on the other hand, comes off a defeat against India in their last Group A match held in Dubai. However, they are considered the favorites for this encounter, owing to the all-around strength and depth of their squad, as well as their experience gained from competing in matches across Pakistan.
In summary, South Africa has brought in George Linde as a backup for Aiden Markram, who is uncertain for the Champions Trophy semi-final due to injury. Markram’s fitness will be evaluated on match day, and his absence could alter South Africa’s lineup. Meanwhile, New Zealand aims to leverage their squad depth and experience in the upcoming match.
Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com
