After two weeks of thrilling cricket, the World Championship of Legends 2025 is all set for its grand finale. On Saturday, August 2, the undefeated Pakistan Champions (PNC) will lock horns with the in-form South Africa Champions (SAC) at the historic Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham. With both teams fielding former international stars, the final promises high-intensity action and nostalgic moments for cricket fans.
Match Details:
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Fixture: Pakistan Champions vs South Africa Champions, Final – WCL 2025
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Date: Saturday, August 2
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Time: 9:00 PM IST
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Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
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Broadcast/Streaming: Star Sports Network, FanCode (App and Website)
Teams Overview:
Pakistan Champions (PNC)
Under the leadership of Shahid Afridi, Pakistan Champions have been the standout team of the tournament. They are the only unbeaten side heading into the final. Their journey to the grand finale, however, took an unusual turn when their semi-final against India Champions was cancelled due to diplomatic issues. Despite that, their consistent performances earned them a well-deserved place in the final.
With a solid mix of power-hitters and seasoned bowlers, PNC boasts a well-balanced lineup. The presence of match-winners like Saeed Ajmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Imad Wasim, and Shoaib Malik adds depth to both batting and bowling.
South Africa Champions (SAC)
Led by the charismatic AB de Villiers, South Africa Champions have been equally impressive, winning four of their last five games. They booked their place in the final by edging past Australia Champions in a dramatic one-run victory during the semi-final. Their only loss in the tournament came against Pakistan, which they will be keen to avenge.
The side has fired with both bat and ball. With players like Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, Wayne Parnell, and Chris Morris, SAC has the right blend of experience and skill to challenge any opponent.
Head-to-Head Record:
| Matches Played | Pakistan C Won | South Africa C Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
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First Meeting: July 9, 2024 – SAC won
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Last Meeting: July 25, 2025 – PNC won
Key Players to Watch:
AB de Villiers (SAC) – Probable Best Batter
The South African legend has been in spectacular form, scoring 309 runs in just five games, including two centuries and a fifty. With an average of 103.00, he is the highest run-scorer in the tournament. De Villiers will once again be key for South Africa, especially in a high-pressure final.
Saeed Ajmal (PNC) – Probable Best Bowler
Despite featuring in just one match, Saeed Ajmal made an immediate impact with figures of 6 for 16 in 3.5 overs. His performance against Australia Champions made him one of Pakistan’s leading wicket-takers. On a pitch that may assist spin, Ajmal could be Pakistan’s trump card.
Predicted Playing XIs:
Pakistan Champions (PNC)
Sharjeel Khan, Kamran Akmal (wk), Umar Amin, Mohammad Hafeez, Shahid Afridi (c), Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Imad Wasim, Wahab Riaz, Sohail Khan, Saeed Ajmal
South Africa Champions (SAC)
Hashim Amla, JJ Smuts, Henry Davids, AB de Villiers (c), JP Duminy, Jacques Rudolph, Morne van Wyk, Wayne Parnell, Chris Morris, Aaron Phangiso, Hardus Viljoen
Pitch Report – Edgbaston, Birmingham:
The Edgbaston surface offers assistance to both seamers and spinners. Early in the match, pacers may find bounce and movement, while spinners could dominate in the middle overs. With dry weather expected, a score in the range of 170–180 may prove to be competitive. Batting first could be an advantage under pressure.
Possible Scenarios:
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If Pakistan bat first and post a score above 175, their spin-heavy attack could prove decisive.
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If South Africa chase, much will rest on AB de Villiers and JP Duminy to anchor the innings.
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Both teams have match-winners, making it a close contest. However, bowling depth and middle-order stability may tilt the game.
Match Prediction:
Pakistan Champions hold a slight edge owing to their unbeaten streak, deeper bowling unit, and recent victory over South Africa. However, with AB de Villiers in top form, South Africa Champions remain a serious threat.
Predicted Winner: Pakistan Champions, in a closely fought final.