BIRMINGHAM, Aug 1 — In a dramatic last-ball finish, South Africa Champions defeated Australia Champions by a solitary run in the second semi-final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 at Edgbaston on Wednesday, booking their place in the final against Pakistan Champions.
Chasing 187 for victory, Australia Champions fell just short at 185/7, despite a valiant unbeaten 49 off 29 balls from Dan Christian. With three needed off the final delivery, Nathan Coulter-Nile was run out attempting a second run, handing South Africa a nail-biting win.
“I just told the guys to stay calm and focus on executing each ball,” said Wayne Parnell, who was named Player of the Match for his figures of 2/33. Fellow pacer Hardus Viljoen also picked up two crucial wickets, shifting the momentum in South Africa’s favour during the death overs.
Earlier, South Africa Champions posted 186/8 in 20 overs, built on a blistering 76 off 35 balls by Morne van Wyk, who smashed seven fours and five sixes at a strike rate of 217.14. JJ Smuts provided a solid platform with his 57 off 41 balls, while Australia clawed back in the death overs, thanks to a brilliant spell by Peter Siddle, who grabbed 4/30, including three wickets in the final over.
“Van Wyk’s innings gave us the cushion we needed,” said South Africa’s skipper. “It wasn’t easy out there, but we backed our bowlers in the end.”
Australia’s chase got off to a steady start with Chris Lynn (35) and D’Arcy Short (33) keeping the scoreboard ticking. However, tight bowling and South Africa’s discipline in the final overs applied the brakes. Short also made an impact with the ball, claiming 2 wickets, while Brett Lee and Christian chipped in with one each.
The gripping contest sets up a mouth-watering final between South Africa and Pakistan, which will also be played at Edgbaston on August 2.
