India´s Yuvaj Singh (R) celebrates with Virat Kohli at the end of the match?Reuters.

LONDON: India swept into the Champions Trophy semi-finals and eliminated woeful South Africa as Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kholi inspired the holders? eight-wicket victory on Sunday.

Kohli?s side avoided the embarrassment of an early exit as they survived a do or die showdown to advance from Group B in style.

Having dismissed South Africa for 191, two-time champions India cruised home with 12 overs to spare at The Oval.

In-form opener Dhawan was the key figure with 78 from 83 balls, including 12 fours, while captain Kohli weighed in with a typically elegant 76.

AB de Villiers was run out despite a desperate dive, India v South Africa, Champions Trophy 2017, Group B, The Oval, London, June 11, 2017?AFP.

 

South Africa found it impossible to take charge against India?s accurate bowling and only Quinton de Kock (53) produced an innings of substance.

India were aided by the shambolic South Africans, whose captain AB De Villiers failed for the third time in the tournament after being run out for 16.

In total, South Africa had three run outs as they lost their last eight wickets for 51 runs.

If India mount a successful run chase, the holders will join Group A qualifiers England and Bangladesh in the semi-finals.

The remaining last four place will be decided on Monday when the winners of Sri Lanka against Pakistan will advance.

Playing XI