Ryan Rickelton smashed a stunning century on his ICC event debut, while Kagiso Rabada’s three-wicket haul powered South Africa to a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
South Africa kicked off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in style, registering a massive 107-run victory over Afghanistan. Ryan Rickelton, on his ICC tournament debut, made history by smashing a brilliant century, becoming only the second South African after Gary Kirsten to achieve the feat. His ton, along with crucial half-centuries from Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen, propelled the Proteas to an imposing 315/6 after electing to bat first.
Despite Afghanistan’s hopes of a competitive chase, Kagiso Rabada led the charge with a fiery spell, taking 3/36, dismantling the Afghan top order. Rahmat Shah fought a lone battle, scoring a gritty 90, but received little support as wickets tumbled around him. The disciplined South African bowling attack, with Wian Mulder and Lungi Ngidi chipping in with two wickets each, ensured Afghanistan was bowled out for 208, sealing a dominant victory for the Proteas.
With this statement win, South Africa has started their Champions Trophy campaign with confidence, while Afghanistan will need to regroup before their next encounter.
Tags:
Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025, Ryan Rickelton Century, Kagiso Rabada Bowling, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, South Africa Cricket, Afghanistan Cricket, ICC Champions Trophy, Cricket Highlights, Proteas Victory, Lungi Ngidi, Wian Mulder