Ahead of their crucial semi-final match against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, South Africa has called up all-rounder George Linde as cover for the injured Aiden Markram.
Markram suffered a hamstring injury during their group stage match against England and is currently doubtful for the semi-final scheduled for March 5 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Injury Update and Linde’s Role
Markram’s injury occurred while fielding against England, forcing him to sit out the remainder of the match.
Although he described the injury as “mostly precautionary,” Markram will undergo a fitness test on Tuesday evening to determine his availability for the semi-final.
If he fails to recover in time, Linde could potentially replace him in the squad, pending approval from the ICC’s event technical committee.
Linde, a left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, will join the South African camp on Tuesday evening as a traveling reserve.
His inclusion is also strategic, considering the possibility of South Africa advancing to a final in Dubai, where conditions might favor spin bowling.
Linde’s Recent Form
Linde has been in impressive form recently. In the SA20 league, he played a pivotal role in MI Cape Town’s maiden title win, scoring 161 runs at a strike rate of 153.33 and taking 11 wickets with an economy of 6.29. His versatility as a batsman and bowler makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
Team Status
South Africa has already faced significant challenges due to injuries, with fast bowlers Anrich Nortje, Gerald Coetzee, Nandre Burger, and Lizaad Williams ruled out before the tournament began.
Additionally, captain Temba Bavuma and opening batter Tony de Zorzi missed a match due to illness but are now recovering and expected to train on Tuesday evening.
Match Implications
South Africa enters the semi-final with momentum, having topped Group B with two wins and a no-result from three matches.
Their victory over England showcased their batting strength, and they will hope to carry this form into the semi-final against New Zealand.
The inclusion of Linde provides an additional option for the team, especially if they progress to the final, where spin-friendly conditions might prevail.
