South Africa Champions Edge Australia by 1 Run to Set-Up Final Against Pakistan
In a pulsating **World Championship of Legends 2025** semi-final at Edgbaston, **South Africa Champions** beat **Australia Champions** by just **1 run**, thanks to a sensational last-ball run-out by **AB de Villiers**. With that victory, South Africa will now face the **Pakistan Champions** in the final.
Match Overview
South Africa posted **186/8 in 20 overs**, powered by Morne van Wyk (76 off 35) and JJ Smuts (57 off 41). Australia needed 14 runs off the final over but fell short by a single run, finishing on **185/7**.
Key Performers
- Morne van Wyk: 76 (35) with 7×4 and 5×6
- JJ Smuts: Anchored with 57 (41), forging a 96-run stand
- Wayne Parnell: Held the nerve in the final over to defend the target
Climactic Final Delivery
With 3 needed off the final ball, **Dan Christian** attempted a daring double but fell short thanks to a daring throw from **AB de Villiers**, hitting the stumps as the non-striker’s bails were broken. Coulter-Nile was miles short, sealing a dramatic win for SA.
What Comes Next
**South Africa Champions** will take on **Pakistan Champions** in the highly anticipated WCL 2025 final on **August 2** at Edgbaston. Pakistan earned their spot via walkover after India Champions forfeited their semi-final.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| South Africa Total | 186/8 in 20 overs |
| Australia Chase | 185/7 – lost by 1 run |
| Top Scorers | Morne van Wyk (76), JJ Smuts (57) |
| Decider | Last-ball run out by AB de Villiers |
| Final Matchup | South Africa vs Pakistan Champions |
FAQs
How did South Africa Champions win the semi-final?
They defended 186 and won by 1 run on the final ball, with AB de Villiers executing the run-out to deny Australia the chase.
Who stood out in South Africa’s innings?
Morne van Wyk top-scored with 76 off 35 and JJ Smuts added 57; their partnership was crucial in setting a defendable total.
Who will South Africa face in the WCL final?
South Africa Champions will play Pakistan Champions in the final on August 2 at Edgbaston.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information compiled from online sources. Please verify independently before making any decisions based on it.
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