South Africa made a strong statement in their opening ICC Champions Trophy match, securing a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday.

Opener Ryan Rickelton starred with a maiden ODI century, crafting a 106-ball 103 with seven fours and a six to anchor South Africa’s imposing total of 315/6. Supporting knocks from Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52), along with disciplined bowling, ensured a comfortable win.

Kagiso Rabada (3/36), Wiaan Mulder (2/36), and Lungi Ngidi (2/56) led the charge with the ball, dismantling Afghanistan for 208 in 43.3 overs. Rashid Khan remained wicketless in his 10 overs, conceding 59 runs, as South Africa blunted Afghanistan’s spin threat.

Rahmat Shah fought valiantly with a 92-ball 90, but Afghanistan’s top order faltered early, slumping to 50/4 within 14 overs. Despite Shah’s resistance, the debutants fell short in their Champions Trophy debut.

The action continues on Day 4 in Lahore, where Australia face England in a crucial Group B encounter at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. Both teams come into the tournament with concerns — Australia have lost recent ODI series to Pakistan (1-2) and Sri Lanka (0-2), while England, reeling from their disastrous 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, recently suffered a 0-3 whitewash against India.  Under Brendon McCullum’s leadership, England hope to revive their fortunes, while Steve Smith-led Australia aim to prove their pedigree despite injuries.

India and New Zealand have started strong, securing convincing wins over Bangladesh and Pakistan, respectively.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, setting the stage for a thrilling race to the knockout rounds.