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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has started in grand fashion, with eight teams battling for glory. South Africa has been chasing a major ICC title for over two decades, having last lifted this trophy in 2000. On the other hand, Afghanistan has been steadily rising in international cricket, and they will be eager to claim their first ICC silverware. Both teams boast a mix of experience and young talent, making this an exciting contest.
Match Details
| Match | Afghanistan vs South Africa, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | 21st February 2025 |
| Time | 2:30 PM IST |
| Venue | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Format | ODI |
Teams Preview
Afghanistan Preview
Afghanistan has grown into a competitive team in recent years, thanks to their talented squad. They will be relying on their top order, consisting of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, to provide a solid foundation. Both openers have shown their ability to score big runs, with Gurbaz known for his aggressive style and Zadran for his stability at the crease. Rahmat Shah, who will bat at number three, is a vital player with his experience in anchoring innings.
The middle order will be led by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, along with all-rounders Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, and Azmatullah Omarzai. These players add depth to the batting lineup while also providing useful bowling options. Nabi’s experience will be crucial in keeping the innings together, while Omarzai’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an important asset.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack revolves around Rashid Khan, their biggest match-winner. He will be supported by left-arm spinner Noor Ahmed and Mohammad Nabi in the spin department. The pace attack will be handled by Fazalhaq Farooqi and Fareed Malik, with Omarzai chipping in as the third seamer.
Afghanistan Predicted Playing XI:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Malik, Noor Ahmed
South Africa Preview
South Africa enters the competition with a well-balanced squad featuring a strong batting lineup and a formidable bowling attack. The opening duo of Temba Bavuma and Ryan Rickelton will look to provide a steady start. Bavuma, with his leadership and solid technique, will play a key role, while Rickelton has been in good form recently.
The middle order is South Africa’s biggest strength, featuring Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen, and David Miller. Markram and van der Dussen provide stability, while Klaasen and Miller are known for their ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the latter stages. Klaasen’s recent performances in white-ball cricket make him a player to watch out for.
Their bowling attack will be led by Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi. This pace trio brings a mix of experience, raw pace, and swing, making them a major threat. Wiaan Mulder is expected to play the role of an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball. Keshav Maharaj will lead the spin attack, with Tabraiz Shamsi available as an additional spin option depending on conditions.
South Africa Predicted Playing XI:
Temba Bavuma (c), Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Rahmanullah Gurbaz |
| Batters | Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Temba Bavuma |
| All-rounders | Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Wiaan Mulder |
| Bowlers | Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen |
Pitch Report
The National Stadium in Karachi generally offers a slow surface, making stroke-making difficult as the match progresses. The pitch is expected to be good for batting initially, but spinners will come into play later in the innings. Pacers might get some movement early on but will have to work hard for wickets once the ball gets old.
- Average First Innings Score: 245
- Highest Total Recorded: 374
- Preferred Strategy: Teams winning the toss are likely to bat first, as chasing can be tricky on this surface.
Toss Prediction: Bat First
With the pitch slowing down as the game progresses, batting first will be the preferred choice for both teams.
Winning Prediction
South Africa enters the game as favorites due to their experienced batting lineup and a balanced bowling attack. Their top six batters have the ability to post big totals, while their pacers and spinners complement each other well.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, has a strong squad filled with talented players, but they will need their middle order to step up against South Africa’s formidable bowling attack. Their chances will largely depend on Rashid Khan’s performance with the ball and how well their batters handle South Africa’s pace attack.
Prediction: South Africa to win against Afghanistan
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