South Africa, the 1998 Champions Trophy champions, enters the 2025 tournament with positive momentum from recent successes. Despite missing key players due to injuries, their lineup features strong bowlers and experienced batsmen. They will open against Afghanistan, looking to leverage their depth for a successful campaign.
South Africa, the 1998 Champions Trophy winners, enters the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with significant confidence following strong performances in recent tournaments, including the T20 World Cup and World Test Championship. They recently reached the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup held in India, where they faced off against the eventual champions, Australia, in a tightly contested match.
Despite their underwhelming results in the recent tri-series, South Africa is optimistic, particularly with key players returning. Their first match in the tournament will be against Afghanistan on February 21 in Karachi, setting the stage for their best lineup to take the field.
South Africa will be without players Anrich Nortje and Gerald Coetzee due to injuries. However, star bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, along with either Wiaan Mulder or Corbin Bosch, will enrich their bowling attack, providing depth and experience.
Aiden Markram is expected to contribute with his all-round abilities for a full quota of ten overs, while Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi will lead the spin department. The finalized squad for the Champions Trophy includes:
1. Temba Bavuma (c)
2. Ryan Rickelton
3. Rassie van der Dussen
4. Aiden Markram
5. Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
6. David Miller
7. Wiaan Mulder
8. Marco Jansen
9. Keshav Maharaj
10. Kagiso Rabada
11. Tabraiz Shamsi
Tristan Stubbs, despite his consistent performance, will not be part of the playing XI for this tournament. His inclusion may be reconsidered as South Africa prepares for the upcoming World Cup in 2027.
With a mix of experience and emerging talent, South Africa aims to make a significant impact in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hoping to transform their past performances into a title win this time around.
In summary, South Africa approaches the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with a revitalized squad despite some injury setbacks. Their well-rounded team, featuring seasoned players and promising newcomers, sets a solid foundation for success as they face Afghanistan in their opening match. With their past performances and strong morale, the Proteas aim to reclaim international glory in this prestigious tournament.
Original Source: www.sportingnews.com
