"Clinical performance. We took the brave decision to bat first not knowing about the wicket. We were then clinical with the ball too, closest to one of our best performances. The wicket looked a lot different to what we are used to in Pakistan."
With these words, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma summed up his team’s emphatic start to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as they cruised to a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan on Friday.
Choosing to bat first on unfamiliar ground, South Africa’s decision paid off as they posted a formidable 315/6. Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a maiden ODI century, his 103 anchoring the innings. He found support from Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (50), and Aiden Markram (52*), ensuring the Proteas had a total their bowlers could defend with confidence.
The batters fronted up and we managed to get a good score. There were a lot of cracks and we expected some variable bounce, it was a bit tricky at times. The guys at the back end pride themselves on having a strong finish
Chasing 316, Afghanistan never settled, as South Africa’s bowlers applied relentless pressure. Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi set the tone early, while Kagiso Rabada's return in the 22nd over triggered a crucial breakthrough. Despite a resilient 90 from Rahmat Shah, Afghanistan's innings crumbled, eventually folding for 208 in 43.3 overs.
The Karachi crowd erupted when Rashid Khan launched a brief but entertaining counterattack, smashing two sixes and consecutive fours. However, Keshav Maharaj ended his cameo swiftly, ensuring South Africa stayed in control.
With the bowlers, it was about hitting that length hard. We need to do more of the same now against Australia
South Africa’s bowlers executed their plans to perfection, with Rabada leading the charge with three wickets, while Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder contributed with two apiece. With this dominant performance, the Proteas have set a strong foundation for their Champions Trophy campaign.
