Tue Feb 25 09:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Rain Delays Australia-South Africa Clash in Champions Trophy

**Rawalpindi, Pakistan** – The seventh match of the 2025 Champions Trophy between Australia and South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has been delayed due to rain. The toss has been postponed, and a reduction in overs is expected. This is the first-ever meeting between these two teams in the Champions Trophy. Both teams enter the match having won their opening games; Australia defeated England, while South Africa triumphed over Afghanistan.

Possible playing XIs for both teams have been announced:

**Australia:** Steve Smith (c), Matthew Short, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa.

**South Africa:** Temba Bavuma (c), Ryan Rickelton, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wayne Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi.

The Rawalpindi pitch has historically been supportive of both batsmen and bowlers. In 27 ODIs played at the venue, teams batting first have won 12 matches, while those bowling first have won 15. The highest score recorded at the ground is 337/3, achieved by Pakistan against New Zealand in 2023.

The match faces a significant threat from the ongoing rain. There is a 67% chance of rain in Rawalpindi today, following heavy morning showers.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign ended after their elimination following New Zealand’s 5-wicket victory over Bangladesh. This result secured New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals alongside India.

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