SA vs AFG Highlights: South Africa Begin Champions Trophy Campaign With Commanding Win Over Afghanistan

Ryan Rickelton continued his fine form, making a strong statement with a well-crafted century. The opener scored 103 off 106 balls, striking seven fours and a six.

Ryan Rickelton continued his fine form, making a strong statement with a well-crafted century.

Source : @ACBofficials / X

IND vs SA: South Africa showcased an all-round performance to register a thumping 107-run victory over Afghanistan in SA vs AFG ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match at Karachi's National Stadium on Friday (February 21). 

Proteas delivered a clinical performance with bat and ball to setup a routine win. A century from Rickelton with fifties from van der Dussen and Markram lit up the first innings, and then the South African pacers troubled Afghanistan with their discipline. Wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals, and Afghanistan, chasing 316 runs, were finally been bundled out for 208.

Ryan Rickelton's classy ton

After winning the toss, South Africa opted to bat first and put up a strong total of 315/6, courtesy of a brilliant century from opener Ryan Rickelton. 

Ryan Rickelton continued his fine form, making a strong statement with a well-crafted century. The opener scored 103 off 106 balls, striking seven fours and a six before Rashid Khan finally dismissed him. His 129-run stand with Temba Bavuma for the second wicket provided a solid platform for South Africa.

Temba Bavuma, Van der Dussen, and Markram chip In

Skipper Temba Bavuma played a crucial knock of 58 off 76 balls, including five boundaries. Rassie van der Dussen kept the momentum going with a fluent 52 off 46 balls, hitting six fours and a six. Aiden Markram added the finishing touch with a quickfire 52 off 36 deliveries, smashing six fours and a six to push South Africa past the 300-run mark.

Afghan Spinners fail to deliver

Afghanistan's spin attack, usually their strength, failed to make an impact in this match. Mohammad Nabi was the only spinner to make inroads, taking 2/51 in his 10 overs. Rashid Khan remained wicketless despite bowling his full quota, conceding 59 runs. Noor Ahmad also struggled, giving away 65 runs in nine overs while picking up just one wicket.

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