South Africa dominates Afghanistan in their opening match, with stellar performances from both bat and ball.
South Africa registered a convincing 107-run victory over Afghanistan in their first match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Chasing a formidable target of 316 runs, Afghanistan was bowled out for 208 in their allotted 50 overs, with Kagiso Rabada leading the charge with three wickets. Wiaan Mulder and Lungi Ngidi each picked up two wickets to complement the pace attack, ensuring that Afghanistan’s chase never gained any real momentum.
South Africa’s Strong Batting Display Sets the Stage
Earlier in the day, South Africa had posted a commanding total of 315/6 in their 50 overs, powered by Ryan Rickelton’s maiden ODI century. Rickelton’s knock of 103 off 106 balls was the highlight of the innings, with contributions from Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*) adding vital runs in the middle order. Rickelton’s century was followed by a crucial 50 from Bavuma, which anchored the innings during the middle overs. Van der Dussen and Markram ensured South Africa finished strongly, pushing the total beyond 300 despite a few wickets falling in quick succession.
Afghanistan’s Fightback Led by Rahmat Shah
Afghanistan’s chase was led by Rahmat Shah, who scored a valiant 90 off 92 balls. His knock included 9 fours and a six, but despite his efforts, Afghanistan’s chase faltered as wickets fell at regular intervals. Shah’s battle against the South African bowlers was the bright spot in an otherwise disappointing chase for Afghanistan, as the rest of the batting lineup failed to support him effectively.
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Rabada, Mulder, and Ngidi Take Control
The South African bowlers were in fine form throughout Afghanistan’s innings. Kagiso Rabada was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 3 wickets, while Mulder and Ngidi chipped in with two wickets each. Rabada’s incisive spells, especially in the middle overs, broke Afghanistan’s backbone, and despite a spirited fight from Shah, the target proved too steep.
Afghanistan’s middle order crumbled under the pressure of the required run rate, with no partnerships able to flourish. South Africa’s disciplined bowling performance, combined with their earlier batting exploits, helped them secure a comfortable victory by 107 runs.
Conclusion
South Africa’s all-round performance in both batting and bowling helped them register an impressive 107-run win over Afghanistan in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite Rahmat Shah’s determined knock, Afghanistan’s chase never gained real momentum as the South African bowlers dominated. With this win, South Africa will look to build on their strong start to the tournament as they eye further successes in the competition.
Brief Scores:
- South Africa: 315/6 in 50 overs (Ryan Rickelton 103, Temba Bavuma 58, Rassie van der Dussen 52, Aiden Markram 52*; Mohammad Nabi 2-51).
- Afghanistan: 208 all out in 50 overs (Rahmat Shah 90; Kagiso Rabada 3-36, Wiaan Mulder 2-33, Lungi Ngidi 2-43).
