Champions Trophy Opener
South Africa started their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a high note with a dominating 107-run win over Afghanistan in Karachi on Friday. Ryan Rickelton was the star of the show with his debut ODI century, making 103 off 106 balls, as the Proteas amassed a stiff total of 315/6.
Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*) gave good support, making it a tough target for the Afghan team. Afghanistan's batting order collapsed under South Africa's powerful bowling attack in return.
Kagiso Rabada was the leading wicket-taker with 3/36, supported by Wiaan Mulder and Lungi Ngidi, who took two wickets each. Afghanistan's Rahmat Shah battled hard with a gritty 90, but did not get much support from his colleagues.
The win provides South Africa a good platform in Group B, which features Australia and England as well. For Afghanistan, debuting at the Champions Trophy, the defeat shows them where they need to improve to be competitive at the top level.
Source: Al Jazeera, Indian Express, NDTV Sports