The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the famous competition, marking their return after a hiatus of eight years. The hybrid version will see Pakistan and United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosting the tournament, where the Pakistani rulers want to defend their title.
The type of competition is schedule
Eight participating teams – India, PakistanSouth Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan – divided into two groups of four. The event will begin on February 19, when the Pakistan team will face New Zealand at the National Stadium, Karachi. The much-awaited India vs New Zealand match will be played on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, while the final will be played on March 9.
The Champions Trophy has always been a highly competitive competition, its compact nature allowing for room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead of the ICC's January 12 deadline, discussions of squads and team strategies are heating up.
South Africa's chances in this tournament
South Africa will enter the Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the potential contenders. Known for their consistent performance in ICC tournaments, the Proteas are looking to end their long drought at the event. They last tasted glory at the inaugural event of the tournament, then known as the ICC Knockout Trophy, in 1998 in Bangladesh. However, since then, South Africa have struggled in the Champions Trophy, failing to reach the finals and entering the 2017 group stage.
Temba BavumaThe team has shown promise in recent years, reaching the finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite the recent 0-3 defeat at home against Pakistan, South Africa remains a strong opponent. Their preparations include a tri-series in Multan involving Pakistan and New Zealand, giving them an opportunity to resume before the tournament.
Great challenges and opportunities
Champions Trophy 2025 has unique challenges, especially with matches spread over two different terrains – Pakistan's rolling pitches and UAE's flat, easy-to-hit pitches. For teams like South Africa, adapting quickly to different situations is essential. As the January 12 deadline to submit teams approaches, selectors are working to finalize their schedule. South Africa, in particular, needs to be balanced between experienced campaigners and promising new ones. With Bavuma leading the team, the Proteas will rely on their in-form players to face the tough competition.
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Here are the predictions for the South African team in Champions Trophy 2025
1. Temba Bavuma (Captain)
Temba Bavuma is the most consistent top batsman in South Africa. Known for his composure under pressure, he brings leadership and intellectual skills to the team. Although his form in ODIs has been a bit off lately, Bavuma's ability to put in innings will be crucial against Pakistan's slow pitches. His captaincy will play an important role in running the top-flight matches.
2. Aiden Markram
A versatile batsman, Aiden Markram is also skilled in attacking and combination play. Markram's ability to play around makes him a valuable player in limited positions. He can also connect with simple spins, giving power to the XI. His recent form in white ball cricket proves his importance to the team.
3. Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks is a professional opener known for her collaboration skills. With a knack for finding gaps in the power play, he often sets the tone for South Africa's innings. Hendricks has been consistent in ODIs and will be crucial against the high pace and fast spin.
4. Heinrich Klaasen (Wicketkeeper)
One of the most destructive midfielders, Heinrich Klaasen's ability to accelerate at the death makes him a valuable player. His wicket-keeping skills add to the versatility of the team, providing an additional option behind the stumps. Klaasen's recent heroics in white-ball cricket show his game-changing ability.
5. David Miller
The experienced southpaw, David Miller, is a reliable finisher who thrives under pressure. His power hitting in the last overs can be a game changer for South Africa. Miller's ability to drive spin and pace in equal measure makes him a vital asset in the UAE's best batting conditions.
6. Ryan Rickelton
Ryan Rickelton, who is very reliable, is known for his aggressive behavior and strong skills. Despite being new to the international game, Rickelton has shown some talent in the domestic game. His inclusion adds depth and flexibility to South Africa's batting order.
7. Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen is a reliable batsman who excels at building innings and rotating batting. His consistency in ODIs makes him the backbone of South Africa's middle order. Van der Dussen's ability to adapt to different plays is essential in high-pressure games.
8. Tristan Stubbs
Tristan Stubbs is an exciting young talent with an explosive shot. Known for his fearless play, Stubbs is a game changer in the lower middle. His prowess in the field adds value, making him a formidable player.
9. Marco Jansen
The tall left-arm pacer, Marco Jansen brings a unique edge to the South African bowling attack. His ability to move the ball and release jumpers makes him a powerful weapon at any distance. Jansen's effective hitting skills also make him a valuable all-arounder.
10. Corbin Bosch
Corbin Bosch is a versatile all-rounder who can contribute with bat and ball. Known for his accurate medium pace, he provides control between the overs. Bosch's ability to complete innings with the bat makes him a contender for the team.
11. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj is South Africa's go-to spinner in ODIs, known for his power and ability to take wickets between the overs. His experience on subcontinental tracks will be invaluable for the Champions Trophy. Maharaj can also provide cheap money.
12. Tabraiz Shamsi
The left-arm bowler, Tabraiz Shamsi is a legendary wicket-taker in white-ball cricket. His versatility and ability to get batsmen out make him a match winner, especially in the best conditions. Shamsi's ability to break ties will be crucial in the middle overs.
13. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is the leader of South Africa's pace attack, bringing speed, fight, and accuracy. His ability to strike early with the new ball and pinpoint orkers at the death makes him indispensable. Rabada's experience in ICC tournaments adds value to him.
14. Anrich Nortje / Wiaan Mulder
- Anrich Nortje: Real speed, Nortje's speed and hatred can confuse people in any place. Its additional output potential will be beneficial to Pakistan and the UAE.
- Wian Mulder: A reliable all-rounder, Mulder provides an edge to the team with his strong ability to help with the bat in difficult situations.
15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo
- Beuran Hendricks: A left-arm spinner, Hendricks adds diversity to the South African batting line-up. His ability to move the ball makes him effective on the power play.
- Andile Phelukwayo: An all-rounder, Phehlukwayo's ability to bowl the ball in a variety of fields and score runs at the base makes him a versatile option.