Joe Root was stunned by former captain Michael Vaughan’s assertion that his side had failed to respect Test cricket during their thumping defeat.
"Sunday’s clash against the titleholders at London’s Oval has taken on added significance for the Proteas after a shock defeat by Pakistan"
But the staggering amounts paid, driven largely by the Chinese, could be nearing an end.
South Africa-born batsman Kevin Pietersen’s hopes of a recall to the national team were in tatters due to "lack of trust" in the player.
Sri Lanka handed England their third defeat of the 2015 Cricket World Cup, while Pakistan defeated Zimbabwe to get their campaign back on track.
An emotional Frank Lampard rescued a point for champions Manchester City against former club Chelsea on Sunday.
The Ashes Test series has been rocked by revelations that South African Mickey Arthur is taking legal action over his sacking as Australia coach.
India added the Champions Trophy to the World Cup they won two years ago after seeing off England by five runs in a dramatic Champions Trophy final.
Hashim Amla has hailed the Proteas, that played without Dale Steyn and Morné Morkel, for returning to its winning ways at the Champions Trophy.
British police have said they have no plans to continue inquiries into a complaint regarding alleged racist comments by referee Mark Clattenburg.