CT25: Rickelton 100 helps South Africa to post clinical win over Afghanistan

 



Afghanistan has never won more than two matches against South Africa in One Day Internationals. The trend continued on Friday in the Champions Trophy, as South Africa cruised to a 107-run victory, powered by Ryan Rickelton’s century and disciplined bowling.

Afghanistan is the weakest team in Group B, though they have a history of upsetting major teams in recent years. However, Rashid Khan and his team failed to impress in Karachi on Friday. The Proteas dominated throughout the match, with only Rahmat Shah putting up a fight for Afghanistan.

Winning the toss, South African captain Temba Bavuma opted to bat first. He sacrificed his opening position to allow Ryan Rickelton to take charge at the top. The young batter repaid that trust brilliantly. Despite losing Tony de Zorzi early (11), Rickelton and Bavuma built a solid partnership. Their 129-run stand for the second wicket provided South Africa with a strong foundation. Bavuma (58) departed, but Rickelton went on to score a magnificent century (103).

Every South African batter contributed in some way. Rassie van der Dussen (58) and Aiden Markram (an unbeaten 52) added crucial runs, helping the team cross the 300-run mark. Markram’s explosive finishing ensured South Africa set a formidable target of 316 runs.

Chasing 316, Afghanistan never looked in control. To chase down such a big total, they needed solid partnerships, but that never materialized. Rashid Khan’s side kept losing wickets at regular intervals, failing to build even a single 50-run stand. Rahmat Shah was the lone warrior, holding his ground while wickets tumbled at the other end. He showed remarkable resistance but eventually lost his patience, falling for 90—just short of a century. No other Afghan batter managed even 20 runs, sealing their fate in a one-sided contest. Rabada took the most 3 wickets amongst the South African bowlers . 


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