ew Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and chose to bat first in today’s match against South Africa. Santner said the pitch looks good for batting, though it's a bit dry. He hopes that dew won't affect the game too much later.
For South Africa, Aiden Markram is fit again after his hamstring injury, and Temba Bavuma returns after being ill. Bavuma will open the batting with Ryan Rickelton. Tristan Stubbs is left out, and Tony de Zorzi is also not playing today.
South Africa’s Team:
- Temba Bavuma (captain)
- Ryan Rickelton
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Aiden Markram
- Heinrich Klaasen (wicketkeeper)
- David Miller
- Wiaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
New Zealand’s Team:
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham (wicketkeeper)
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (captain)
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- Will O'Rourke
Weather and Location:
The match is taking place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan. It’s a warm and sunny day, but there’s a nice breeze, so it’s not too hot.
Champions Trophy in Pakistan:
This is the last Champions Trophy match in Pakistan before the tournament moves to Dubai for the final on Sunday. After eight years, Pakistan will lose its title as the defending champions. Cricket fans in Pakistan are sad because Lahore won’t host the final, especially after waiting nearly 30 years to hold an ICC event.
Now, all eyes are on the match as New Zealand bats first, and South Africa looks to take wickets. Stay tuned for live updates as the game progresses!