South Africa Triumphs Over Afghanistan in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener with Rickelton's First Century

Mar, 8 2025

The Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with South Africa delivering a powerful statement against Afghanistan at Karachi's National Stadium. South Africa's Rickelton shone brightly, steaming ahead with his first ever ODI century to lay the foundation for a substantial total of 315/6. Electing to bat after winning the toss, South Africa's decision was validated as their batting contingent rose to the occasion.

Rickelton's innings, characterized by elegant strokes and composed aggression, clocked in at 103 off 106 deliveries, energizing the team's morale. Alongside him, Temba Bavuma provided the necessary backbone, contributing a steady 58 off 76 balls and maintaining momentum through the middle overs. Meanwhile, Rassie van der Dussen's quick-fire 52 off just 46 balls, coupled with Aiden Markram's unbeaten 52 off 36 balls, bolstered the team's final tally.

In reply, Afghanistan's chase showed promise with Rahmat Shah leading from the front. He played a gallant innings of 90 off just 92 balls, attempting to steer his team towards a challenging target. Unfortunately for Afghanistan, South Africa's bowling attack was relentless. Headlined by Kagiso Rabada's impressive 3/36, the team methodically dismantled Afghanistan's batting lineup, reducing them to 208 all out in 43.3 overs.

Both Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen pitched in with well-executed spells, the former taking 2/36 and the latter picking up a crucial wicket for just 32 runs. These efforts marked a significant turnaround for South Africa, breaking a five-match losing streak in ODIs and regaining their footing on the international stage.

Absent from the action due to injuries were key South African players like Enrich Nortje, Nandre Burger, and Gerald Coetzee. Nonetheless, the combined force of Rabada, Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi proved to be more than formidable.

Afghanistan, fresh off a triumphant 2-1 series win against the same opponents back in September 2023, struggled against the diverse and disciplined attack from South Africa. Iconic figures like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Fazalhaq Farooqi featured prominently in Afghanistan’s squad but couldn't overcome the strategic brilliance of their rivals.

This match, marking South Africa's first win in six ODIs, sets an intriguing tone for the tournament as both teams reassess strategies moving forward. Afghanistan, on the other hand, faces the challenge of bouncing back after this defeat.