Champions Trophy 2025 is up and running. In the first set of Group A games, New Zealand and India emerged victorious and jumped up the order on the points table. While the Kiwis defeated host Pakistan, India registered a comfortable win against Bangladesh. Beginning the formalities for Group B, it will be Afghanistan vs South Africa today at the Karachi Stadium.
The clash between Afghanistan and South Africa will be a riveting thriller. Both teams met in August last year, where Afghanistan won the series by 2-1. However, with a new tournament and setup, these teams would leave behind the previous history and prepare for the upcoming game. Interestingly, South Africa and Afghanistan boast a solid lineup of players.
South Africa Squad
The Proteas top order includes Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, and Temba Bavuma. However, it is Safari’s middle order creating terror in the opposition. The trio of Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, and Tristan Stubbs combines aggression and power. As a result, these three big hitters are capable of changing the game single-handedly in any situation. Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen can pull off things towards the end. Also, The bowling unit looks solid with Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Bosch, Lungi Ngidi. Keshav Maharaj or Tabraiz Shamsi will take the spin responsibilities. Unpredictable and uncertain, South Africa is a total entertainer.
Afghanistan Team
Afghanistan’s success over the last few years in cricket is indeed inspiring. The team faced every challenge in adversity and rose like a champion team. With seniors like Mohammed Nabi and Rashid Khan on the team, the youngsters are making the most of every opportunity. Led by Hasmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan is a perfect mix of talent and character. A lot depends on Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zaidi at the beginning. The middle order looks interesting with Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, and Rashid Khan. Fazalhaq Farooqi will spearhead the bowling unit.
So, a fight between two quality teams like Afghanistan vs South Africa guarantees a thrilling contest in match 3 of the Champions Trophy 2025.