Champions Trophy: Rain delays Australia vs South Africa match in Rawalpindi

The ongoing showers in Rawalpindi have delayed the toss of Champions Trophy 2025 match between Australia and South Africa, which was slated to take place at 1:30pm today (Tuesday). 

The game is likely to be affected by rain, which will continue in intervals throughout the day, as predicted by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). According to the weather forecast, Rawalpindi is expected to experience a cloudy and cool day with intermittent afternoon showers. 

There is a 64% chance of precipitation, with an estimated 0.10 inches of rainfall expected over approximately two hours.

While cloud cover will be at 100%, thunderstorms are not anticipated. As the showers continue, the stadium staff have covered the field with sheets. 

Both teams head into this match with winning momentum, having emerged victorious in their opening fixtures of the tournament.

Australia began their campaign with a remarkable victory over England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Batting first, England posted a record-breaking total of 351/8, the highest in Champions Trophy history.

Ben Duckett starred with the bat, scoring a sensational 165 off 143 deliveries. However, Australia chased down the target in just 47.3 overs, thanks to a dominant batting display.

Josh Inglis led the charge with a blistering 120 off 86 balls, while Alex Carey contributed a solid 69 off 63. Glenn Maxwell played a crucial cameo, smashing 32 off 15 deliveries to seal the win.

Meanwhile, South Africa registered a comprehensive 107-run victory over Afghanistan. The Proteas posted 315/6 before bowling out Afghanistan for 208. Ryan Rickelton was the standout performer, scoring 103 off 106 balls.

Captain Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram also chipped in with half-centuries to guide their side to a commanding total.

Playing XI

Australia: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.

Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch.

Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka