Workout
Meditation
Contact Us
He ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Taking place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, marking its return after an eight-year hiatus. The hybrid model will see Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) The venue for the competition, with reigning champions Pakistan aiming to defend their title.
Tournament format and schedule
The eight participating teams – India, PakistanSouth Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan – have been divided into two groups of four. The event will begin on February 19, when hosts Pakistan take on New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. India’s much-awaited group match against New Zealand will take place on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, while the final will take place on March 9.
The Champions Trophy has always been a tremendously competitive tournament, with its compact format leaving little room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead of the ICC’s January 12 deadline, discussions over team composition and strategies are intensifying.
South Africa’s chances in the tournament
South Africa will participate in the 2025 Champions Trophy as one of the possible contenders. Known for their consistent performances in ICC tournaments, the Proteas aim to end a long title drought in this event. The last time they tasted glory was in the inaugural edition of the tournament, then known as ICC Knockout Trophy, in 1998 in Bangladesh. However, South Africa has since struggled in the Champions Trophy, failing to reach another final and crashing out in 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 Pakistan, South Africa remains being a strong contender. Their preparations include a tri-series in Multan involving Pakistan and New Zealand, which will give 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 courts 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 roster submission approaches, selectors are working to finalize their rosters. South Africa, in particular, will need to strike a balance between experienced activists and promising newcomers. With Bavuma leading the team, the Proteas hope to rely on their fit players to navigate the high-pressure environment of the tournament.
ALSO READ: Cricket South Africa responds to sports minister’s call to boycott Afghanistan at Champions Trophy 2025
Here the South Africa team is predicted for the Champions Trophy 2025
1. Temba Bavuma (Captain)
Temba Bavuma is the stabilizing 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. While his ODI form has been inconsistent of late, Bavuma’s ability to anchor the innings will be instrumental in Pakistan’s slow pitches. His captaincy will play a crucial role when facing high-risk 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 subcontinental conditions. He can also contribute a useful 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 the ODIs and will be crucial in combating pace and quality spin early on.
4. Heinrich Klaasen (goalkeeper)
One of the most destructive batsmen in the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen’s ability to accelerate in the death overs makes him indispensable. His wicket-keeping abilities add versatility to the team, providing an additional option behind the stumps. Klaasen’s recent heroics in white-ball cricket highlight his game-changing potential.
5. David Miller
Experienced left-hander David Miller is a reliable finisher who thrives under pressure. His hitting power in the final overs can change games for South Africa. Miller’s ability to handle spin and pace alike makes him a crucial asset in the UAE’s batting-friendly conditions.
6. Ryan Rickelton
A promising top-order batsman, Ryan Rickelton is known for his aggressive approach and solid technique. While relatively new to the international stage, Rickelton has shown flashes 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 building 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 essential in high-pressure matches.
8. Tristan Stubbs
Tristan Stubbs is an exciting young talent with explosive hitting capabilities. Known for his fearless strokeplay, Stubbs is a game-changer in the lower-middle order. His agility on the field adds value, which makes 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 swing the ball and extract rebound makes him a potent weapon on any surface. Jansen’s handy batting skills also make him a valuable lower-order all-rounder.
10. Corbin Bosch
Corbin Bosch is a versatile 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 innings with the bat makes him a strong contender for the team.
11. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s 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 contribute valuable runs further down the order.
12. Tabraiz Shamsi
Left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi is a proven player in white-ball cricket. His variations and ability to beat 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 is the spearhead of South Africa’s fast attack, providing speed, aggression and precision. His ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver accurate yorkers at the death makes him indispensable. Rabada’s experience in ICC tournaments adds to his value.
14. Anrich Nortje / Wiaan Mulder
- Anrich Nortje: Nortje is really fast, his raw pace and hostility can unsettle batsmen on any surface. His ability to generate additional bounce will be an advantage in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.
- Wian MulderA reliable bowling all-rounder, Mulder provides balance to the team with his ability to bowl tight spells and contribute with the bat in critical situations.
15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo
- Beuran Hendricks: Hendricks, a left-arm seamer, 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 in different phases and score quick runs in the lower order makes him a versatile option.
