Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa defeat Afghanistan by 107 runs

South Africa opened their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in style, registering a dominant 107-run victory over Afghanistan in Karachi. A stellar century from Ryan Rickelton (103 off 106 balls) and a disciplined bowling display helped the Proteas secure their first win in Group B.

Rickelton Leads the Charge

Opting to bat first, South Africa’s top order laid a solid foundation, with Rickelton leading from the front. The wicketkeeper-batter paced his innings well, striking seven fours and a six before being run out in the 36th over. His 157-run partnership with skipper Temba Bavuma (58 off 76) steadied South Africa after an early breakthrough. Contributions from Rassie van der Dussen (52 off 46) and Aiden Markram (52 off 36)* powered the team to an imposing 315/6.

Afghanistan’s bowlers had a mixed outing, with Mohammad Nabi (2/51) being the standout performer. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad, and Azmatullah Omarzai picked up a wicket each, but South Africa’s acceleration in the final 10 overs proved too much to contain.

Afghanistan Crumble Under Pressure

Chasing 316, Afghanistan’s innings never gained momentum as Kagiso Rabada (3/36) and Lungi Ngidi (2/56) rattled the top order. Rahmat Shah fought bravely with 90 off 92 balls, but wickets tumbled around him. Ibrahim Zadran (17), Sediqullah Atal (16), and Azmatullah Omarzai (18) got starts but failed to convert.

Once Mohammad Nabi (8) and Rashid Khan (18) fell, Afghanistan’s hopes faded. Wiaan Mulder (2/36) and Keshav Maharaj (1/46) wrapped up the tail, bowling Afghanistan out for 208 in 43.3 overs.

Rickelton Named Player of the Match

For his match-winning century and two catches behind the stumps, Ryan Rickelton was named Player of the Match. His composed knock and sharp glovework played a crucial role in South Africa’s commanding victory.

With this win, South Africa start their Champions Trophy campaign on a high, while Afghanistan will need to regroup quickly for their next fixture.

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Mohammad Nabi joins the list of oldest cricketers to play ICC Champions Trophy