Rickelton's Stunning Century Powers South Africa to a Dominant Win Over Afghanistan

Updated At: 2025/02/23

South Africa kicked off their Champions Trophy campaign in emphatic fashion with a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan in Karachi. Ryan Rickelton was the star of the show, scoring his maiden ODI century, while Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, and Wiaan Mulder dismantled Afghanistan’s batting lineup to secure a comprehensive win.

Rickelton’s Maiden ODI Hundred Sets the Tone

Batting first on a well-grassed Karachi surface, South Africa put up an imposing total of 315 for 6. Rickelton, who had been in red-hot form leading up to the tournament, continued his excellent run with a brilliant 103 off 110 balls. His innings was a blend of composure and aggression, as he found gaps effortlessly and capitalized on loose deliveries.

Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*) provided valuable support, ensuring South Africa built on Rickelton’s platform. A crucial 129-run partnership between Rickelton and Bavuma steadied the innings before Mohammad Nabi provided a breakthrough for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan’s Bowling Struggles

Despite some promising spells from their bowlers, Afghanistan struggled to contain South Africa’s batting onslaught. Mohammad Nabi (2-51) was the most successful bowler, while Rashid Khan, despite his experience, failed to make an impact. Noor Ahmad had an off day, often missing his lengths, which allowed South Africa to maintain a high scoring rate.

Rahmat Shah’s Lone Battle

Chasing 316, Afghanistan needed a solid start, but South Africa’s pacers had different plans. Rabada, Ngidi, and Mulder exploited the conditions expertly, making scoring difficult for the Afghan top order.

Rahmat Shah emerged as Afghanistan’s lone warrior, crafting a well-compiled 90 off 92 balls. His aggressive stroke play provided glimpses of hope, but with no other batter crossing 20, Afghanistan's chase never really took off. The second-highest individual score was a mere 18, highlighting their struggles against a disciplined South African bowling attack.

South Africa’s Pacers Seal the Win

Rabada was at his fiery best, finishing with figures of 3 for 36. He was well-supported by Ngidi (2 for 56) and Mulder (2 for 36), who maintained relentless pressure. Afghanistan’s top order crumbled under this sustained attack, and their middle order failed to build partnerships.

Ibrahim Zadran’s dismissal summed up Afghanistan’s woes as he was undone by a 148.3 kph thunderbolt from Rabada that sent his middle stump cartwheeling. Sediqullah Atal’s difficult innings ended in a run-out after playing a struggling knock, while Hashmatullah Shahidi fell to a stunning catch by Bavuma at mid-on.

Afghanistan’s Late Resistance in Vain

The Karachi crowd momentarily came alive when Rashid Khan played a brief counter-attacking cameo, smashing three fours and a six in his 13-ball 18. However, his dismissal, followed by Rahmat’s edge behind off Rabada, signaled the end as Afghanistan was bowled out for 208 in 43.3 overs.

What’s Next?

With this win, South Africa has gained early momentum in the tournament. Their batting looks in great touch, and their pacers have already sent a strong message. Afghanistan, on the other hand, needs to regroup quickly, especially their batting unit, if they wish to stay alive in the tournament.

As the Champions Trophy progresses, fans will keep an eye on legal online cricket betting platforms for odds and insights on upcoming matches, as South Africa’s strong start has made them an early favorite.