BIRMINGHAM: In a pulsating semi-final clash at Edgbaston, South Africa Champions edged past Australia Champions by just one run to book their place in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 final against Pakistan. The match, decided on the very last delivery, delivered drama, grit, and high-stakes cricket at its best.
South Africa’s Grit Prevails in the Final Over
Chasing a competitive target of 187, Australia Champions fell agonizingly short, finishing at 185-7 in their allotted 20 overs. The chase began with promise as Chris Lynn and Shaun Marsh added 45 runs in just 4.3 overs, with Lynn smashing 35 off 20 balls (4 fours, 1 six).
However, Wayne Parnell struck early to dismiss Lynn and shift the momentum. Marsh continued the resistance, adding 25 off 17, but his departure slowed the innings. Key contributions came from D’Arcy Short (33 off 29) and Daniel Christian, who tried to anchor the chase.
Australia needed 14 runs off the final over, and Rob Quiney’s first-ball six off Parnell raised hopes. But tight bowling and a brilliant last-ball run-out by AB de Villiers restricted them to just 13 runs in the over — sealing a thrilling one-run victory for South Africa.
De Villiers’ Brilliance and Smuts’ Knock Steal the Show
Earlier, South Africa Champions, opting to bat first, posted a competitive 186-8. Their innings was initially rattled as AB de Villiers fell in the second over for just six. But a superb 112-run stand between Morne van Wyk and JJ Smuts rescued the innings.
Smuts played a stylish knock of 57 off 41 (8 fours, 1 six), while van Wyk top-scored with a blistering 76 off 35 balls, hammering 7 fours and 5 sixes. Despite a strong platform at 124-1 in 12 overs, the middle and lower order failed to capitalize as South Africa lost wickets at regular intervals.
Australia’s bowling was spearheaded by Peter Siddle, who claimed 4 wickets for 30 runs to keep the Proteas from reaching the 200-mark.
South Africa to Face Pakistan in WCL 2025 Final
This victory means South Africa Champions will now meet Pakistan Champions in the WCL 2025 Final, setting up a mouth-watering showdown between two in-form teams.