The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 features another thrilling encounter as Afghanistan faces South Africa in their Group B match at the Dubai International Stadium. Afghanistan, a team that has consistently shown improvement in the limited-overs format, will look to make a statement against one of the most formidable sides in world cricket. South Africa, with their star-studded lineup, has historically had the upper hand in ODI encounters, but Afghanistan has proven to be a team that can pull off surprises. The match is highly anticipated, as both sides will be keen to start their Champions Trophy campaign on a positive note.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch the Afg Vs SA match live on Star Sports Network in India, Supersport in South Africa, and Ten Sports in Pakistan. The match is scheduled to begin at 2:00 pm PST, 2:30 pm IST, and 9:00 am GMT.
Team Analysis
Afghanistan features a well-balanced team in this global tournament that has been making strides in recent years. Their batting lineup, though not as powerful as some of the bigger teams, is anchored by their captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, who has been in sublime form. With over 1,800 runs at an average of 35.92, Shahidi’s consistency in the middle order will be crucial for the Afghan squad to set or chase competitive totals. Additionally, the aggressive opening duo of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran adds depth to their batting.
One of the Pathan side’s most exciting strengths is their spin attack. The trio of Rashid Khan, Mujeeb ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi offers a potent threat to any opposition. The talented Rashid Khan, with over 150 wickets in ODIs, is a world-class spinner who can turn the game around in the middle overs. His sharp googlies and the ability to bowl in pressure situations make him a key player. Mujeeb Ur Rahman, known for his deceptive deliveries, complements Rashid perfectly, while Mohammad Nabi’s all-round abilities make him an invaluable asset in all formats. These three, together, have the potential to pose significant challenges for South Africa’s batting lineup.
South Africa, on the other hand, brings a well-rounded squad with a mix of youth and experience. At the top will be the experienced Temba Bavuma, who provides the solid foundation needed in the early overs. In the middle order, players like Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and David Miller bring power and stability, capable of steering the team to a formidable total. Moreover, as we witnessed in the recent Tri-Nation Series, South African batsmen are not hesitant to put a hefty score on the board and challenge the opposing team with targets of over 300 runs.
Unfortunately, Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of this tournament, which has significantly limited the pace options for the Proteas skipper. Additionally, South Africa’s primary weakness going into this match is their inconsistency in major ICC tournaments. They have often struggled to perform under pressure in crucial knockout games, which has been a lingering issue for the team, and their mental toughness in big matches will be tested. Afghanistan, with their youthful exuberance and lack of pressure, can exploit this weakness. Additionally, while the African squad’s pace attack is formidable, their spin department lacks the same quality. Tabraiz Shamsi, while skilled, does not offer the same threat as some of the top spinners in the world.
Conclusion
Key impact players for this match include Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi for Afghanistan, while South Africa will rely heavily on Heinrich Klaasen and Kagiso Rabada. The match promises to be a fascinating contest between Afghanistan’s spin attack and South Africa’s pace-dominant bowling. If you want to watch Afg Vs SA, scroll above and click on the link provided.
