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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, which marks its return after an eight-year hiatus. The hybrid model will see it Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosting the competition, with reigning champions Pakistan aiming to defend their title.
Format and schedule of the tournament
The eight participating teams: India, PakistanSouth Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand i Afghanistan – have been divided into two groups of four. The event will begin on February 19, with hosts Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. India’s much-anticipated group stage match against New Zealand will take place on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, while the final will be held on March 9.
The Champions Trophy has always been a very competitive tournament, with its compact format leaving little room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead of the January 12 ICC deadline, discussions about team compositions and strategies heat up.
South Africa’s chances at the tournament
South Africa will enter the 2025 Champions Trophy as one of the potential contenders. Known for their consistent performances in ICC tournaments, the Proteas aim to end a long title drought at this event. The last time they tasted glory was in the inaugural edition 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 another final and crashing out at the group stage in 2017.
Temba BavumaThe team has shown promise in recent years, reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite recently suffering a 0-3 home defeat against the Pakistan, South Africa remains a strong contender. Their preparations include a tri-series in Multan with Pakistan and New Zealand, giving them a chance to regain momentum ahead of the tournament.
Key challenges and opportunities
The Champions Trophy 2025 presents unique challenges, especially with matches spread over two different venues: the spin-friendly tracks of Pakistan and the flat, batting-friendly pitches of the United Arab Emirates. For teams like South Africa, adapting quickly to different conditions will be crucial. As the January 12 deadline for team submissions approaches, the selectors are working to finalize their list. South Africa, in particular, will need to strike a balance between seasoned activists and promising newcomers. With Bavuma at the helm, the Proteas will hope to rely on their fit players to navigate the high-pressure environment of the tournament.
READ also: Cricket South Africa responds to sports minister’s call for Afghanistan boycott of Champions Trophy 2025
South Africa’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy is then predicted
1. Temba Bavuma (Captain)
Temba Bavuma is the steady force at the top of South Africa’s batting order. Known for his composure under pressure, he brings leadership and tactical acumen to the team. Although his form in ODIs has been inconsistent of late, Bavuma’s ability to anchor the innings will be instrumental in Pakistan’s slow innings. His captaincy will play a crucial role in navigating high-stakes matches.
2. Aiden Markram
A versatile batsman, Aiden Markram is equally adept at playing attacking and consolidating roles. Markram’s ability to play spin effectively makes him a key player in sub-continental conditions. He can also chip in with handy off-spin, providing balance to the XI. His recent form in white-ball cricket underlines his value to the team.
3. Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks is a technically sound opener known for his ability to create partnerships. With a knack for finding gaps in the powerplay, he often sets the tone for South Africa’s innings. Hendricks has been consistent in ODIs and will be crucial to counter quality pace and spin early on.
4. Heinrich Klaasen (Wicketkeeper)
One of the most destructive batsmen in the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen’s ability to accelerate at the death makes him indispensable. His wicket-keeping skills add versatility to the team, providing an extra option behind the stumps. Klaasen’s recent heroics in white-ball cricket highlight his game-changing potential.
5. David Miller
Experienced southpaw David Miller is a reliable finisher who thrives under pressure. His powerful knock in the final can turn South Africa’s matches. Miller’s ability to handle spin and pace makes him a crucial asset in the UAE’s batting-friendly conditions.
6. Ryan Rickelton
Ryan Rickelton, an up-and-coming top-order batsman, is known for his aggressive approach and solid technique. Although relatively new to the international scene, Rickelton has shown glimpses of brilliance in domestic cricket. 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 creating innings and rotating the strike. His consistency in ODIs makes him the backbone of South Africa’s middle order. Van der Dussen’s ability to adapt to different match situations will be crucial in high-pressure games.
8. Tristan Stubbs
Tristan Stubbs is an exciting young talent with explosive batting abilities. Known for his fearless stroke play, Stubbs is a game changer in the lower middle order. His agility on the field brings value, making him a dynamic player in the squad.
9. Marco Jansen
Marco Jansen, a tall left-arm pacer, brings a unique angle to South Africa’s bowling attack. His ability to spin the ball and extract the bounce makes him a powerful weapon on any surface. Jansen’s handy batting skills also make him a valuable lower-order all-rounder.
10. Corbin Bosch
Corbin Bosch is an all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. Known for his accurate medium pace, he provides control in the middle overs. Bosch’s ability to finish the innings with the bat makes him a strong contender for the squad.
11. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s leading spinner in ODIs, known for his control and ability to take wickets in the middle. His experience on subcontinental tracks will be invaluable during the Champions Trophy. Maharaj can also provide valuable runs lower down the order.
12. Tabraiz Shamsi
Tabraiz Shamsi, a left arm wrist spinner, is a proven player in white ball cricket. His variations and ability to get past the batsmen make him a match-winner, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Shamsi’s ability to break partnerships will be key in the middles.
13. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada spearheads South Africa’s pace attack, bringing speed, aggression and accuracy. His ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver Yorkies to death makes him indispensable. Rabada’s experience in ICC tournaments adds to his value.
14. Anrich Nortje / Wiaan Mulder
- Anrich Nortje: A true quick, Nortje’s raw pace and hostility can rattle batsmen on any surface. His ability to extract extra bounce will be an asset in Pakistan and UAE.
- Wian Mulder: A reliable all-rounder, Mulder provides balance to the team with his ability to bowl tight spells and contribute with the bat in crunch situations.
15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo
- Beuran Hendricks: Hendricks, a left-arm spinner, adds variety to South Africa’s pace attack. His ability to swing the ball makes him effective on the power play.
- Andile Phelukwayo: An experienced all-rounder, Phehlukwayo’s ability to bowl at different phases and score quick runs in the lower order makes him a versatile option.
