Karachi, 26 February (HS): South Africa's star batsman Heinrich Klaasen has recovered from an elbow injury and is ready to play in the upcoming match against England. Captain Temba Bavuma confirmed this.

Klaasen could not play against Afghanistan in the first match of the Champions Trophy due to injury, and there were doubts about his availability. However, South Africa's match against Australia on Tuesday was canceled due to rain, giving them extra time. Bavuma said, Everyone is fit, Klaasen is also completely fine now. This is beneficial for the team and creates a positive atmosphere.

The Proteas team will now play their final Group B match against England in Karachi on Saturday. England face Afghanistan today, and the team losing this match will be out of the race for the semi-finals.

South Africa top the group on the basis of net run rate, although Australia also has three points. A win against England will get South Africa entry into the semi-finals.

Bavuma said, We will keep an eye on the England vs Afghanistan match. This will help us understand what will be the position of the table and what we have to do to reach the semi-finals.

Regarding the match against England, Bavuma said, On paper, England is one of the strong teams, so we have to play our best game.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar