The Group B match between Australia and South Africa in the Champions Trophy was abandoned without a ball being bowled as relentless rain washed out play on Tuesday. The downpour, which began in the morning, made it difficult for ground staff to prepare the venue. Both teams will share a point each.
South Africa now lead Group B with three points and a net run rate of +2.140 after their opening win against Afghanistan. Australia, who defeated England in their first game, also have three points but a lower net run rate of +0.475. England and Afghanistan remain winless in the tournament.
Australia have now been involved in four no-result or abandoned matches in their last eight Champions Trophy appearances. They recently secured their first tournament win since 2009, chasing down 352 against England—the highest successful run chase in Champions Trophy history. Josh Inglis and Alex Carey led the charge after Australia were reduced to 136/4.
A win in their final group-stage match will secure a semi-final spot for both Australia and South Africa. Australia will next face Afghanistan, a team that troubled them in the 2023 ODI World Cup despite losing. South Africa will meet England in their last fixture.
In Group A, India and New Zealand have already advanced to the semi-finals, while hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh have been eliminated.
