Pakistan face the victor of the second semi-final today between India and Bangladesh in Birmingham while England will be left to rue another missed chance to lift their first ever 50-overs global trophy.
Pakistan started ICC Champions Trophy 2017 on a weak note after defeat against arch-rivals India in their first match of the tournament. Amir was sidelined with a back spasm, having been a key figure in Pakistan's win against Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Monday. That it managed to hold its own in a match where there was quite a few twists and turns, should boost Pakistan's morale.
But within touching distance of a first global 50-over title after three victories in the group stage, they crumbled limply to 211 all out and the bowlers failed to fire as Pakistan strolled to their target with almost 13 overs to spare.
Both semi-finalists from Group B were decided in the last two group matches: India vs South Africa and Pakistan vs Sri Lanka.
Pakistan produced an inspired bowling performance to dismiss hosts England for a modest 211 in the first semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy here today.
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Indeed, India were one of those sides, when they failed to cope with a brilliant Sri Lanka batting performance, and Virat Kohli's side can not have another off day. "Comprehensive win over England".
One 'reserve' day has been kept by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the final match of the tournament, but there will be none for the semi-finals.
The winners executed the flawless game as they chased down their opponents' opening total, and they comfortably won the match by eight wickets in Cardiff, Wales.
But Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed, dropped twice, struck a superb 61-not out and received excellent support from Mohammad Amir (28-not out) in an unbroken eighth-wicket stand of 75 that sealed a tense three-wicket victory. He had made his 50-over global debut against South Africa last week. Chris Woakes was a big loss, but the English bowlers have complemented each other very well - that an excellent limited-overs bowler like David Willey is yet to play a game gives an indication of their strength.
While Pakistan may be tempted to exploit England's historical problems playing spin, it is their fast bowlers who have led to their success in this tournament. Roy was replaced by Test wicket-keeper Bairstow, who has scored three fifties in his last four ODI innings.
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