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SA Crush Afghanistan as Rickelton’s Century Sets Up Dominant Win in Champions Trophy 2025
South Africa began their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan at the National Stadium in Karachi. A spectacular 103-run knock from Ryan Rickelton, combined with vital contributions from Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, and Temba Bavuma, helped the Proteas post a daunting total of 315/6. In response, Afghanistan faltered despite a valiant 90-run effort by Rahmat Shah, failing to chase the target as Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder led South Africa’s bowling attack.
South Africa’s Batting Dominance Led by Rickelton
A Steady Start and a Spin Challenge
After winning the toss, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma opted to bat first, following Pakistan’s struggles with dew in the tournament opener. Openers Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi provided a brisk start, but Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi struck early, removing de Zorzi for 28 in the sixth over.
Rickelton, however, took control, displaying his full range of strokes, including precise sweeps and drives. Bavuma complemented him well by keeping the scoreboard ticking. The duo built a solid 129-run second-wicket stand, frustrating the Afghan bowlers.
Rickelton’s Ton and Middle-Order Firepower
Rickelton reached his maiden international century off 101 balls, showcasing his ability to accumulate runs efficiently. However, his innings was cut short by a sharp piece of fielding from Rashid Khan, who caught him short of the crease with a direct throw.
Despite Rickelton’s dismissal, van der Dussen (52 off 41) and Markram (52 off 36)* ensured that South Africa maintained their momentum. Their aggressive stroke play in the final overs helped the team cross the 300-run mark, setting a formidable target of 316 for Afghanistan.
Afghanistan’s Struggle Against South Africa’s Pacers
Early Setbacks and Middle-Order Collapse
Afghanistan’s chase got off to a disastrous start as Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada ripped through the top order. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran fell cheaply, leaving Afghanistan struggling at 51/4 in 15 overs.
Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi failed to make an impact, falling for a four-ball duck to Wiaan Mulder. With Afghanistan reeling at 120/6, their hopes of a successful chase faded quickly.
Rahmat Shah’s Lone Battle
Despite wickets tumbling around him, Rahmat Shah played a brilliant counterattacking knock. The right-hander struck nine fours and a six in his 92-ball 90, attempting to salvage Afghanistan’s innings. However, with little support from the lower order, his resistance ended in the 44th over as Afghanistan folded for 208 in 43.3 overs.
Key Performances and Match Summary
- Ryan Rickelton (103 off 101) led South Africa’s charge, while Markram and van der Dussen played crucial supporting roles.
- Kagiso Rabada (3/36) and Wiaan Mulder (2/36) ensured Afghanistan never gained momentum in their chase.
- Rahmat Shah (90 off 92) was the lone bright spot for Afghanistan in an otherwise disappointing batting display.
Brief Scores:
South Africa 315/6 (50 overs) – Ryan Rickelton 103, Aiden Markram 52, Rassie van der Dussen 52; Mohammad Nabi 2/51*
Afghanistan 208 (43.3 overs) – Rahmat Shah 90; Kagiso Rabada 3/36, Wiaan Mulder 2/36
Result: South Africa won by 107 runs
South Africa’s dominant all-round performance puts them in a strong position in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their next challenge will be to maintain this momentum against tougher opponents. Afghanistan, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their batting frailties before their next fixture.
📌 Read More: Champions Trophy 2025 Full Schedule and Updates
🌍 Related News: ICC Official Champions Trophy 2025 Standings
