Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Date: February 21, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM PST / 9:00 AM GMT
Match Preview
The third match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 features Afghanistan and South Africa in a crucial Group B clash. With only three group-stage matches per team, every game is a virtual knockout, making this contest vital for both sides.
South Africa, a team known for strong ICC tournament performances, will look to assert dominance, while Afghanistan, with its spin-heavy attack, will aim to spring a surprise in conditions that may suit them.
Team Overviews
Afghanistan
Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan has grown into a competitive force in world cricket. Their impressive 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, where they defeated major teams, showcased their ability to challenge top sides. With a potent spin attack and aggressive openers, they could trouble South Africa.
Strengths:
- World-class spinners (Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Nabi)
- Explosive openers (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran)
- Improved all-round depth
Challenges:
- Inconsistent middle order
- Death bowling under pressure
South Africa
Under Temba Bavuma’s leadership, South Africa comes into this match with confidence after reaching the semifinals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Their pace attack and experienced batting lineup make them a formidable opponent.
Strengths:
- Experienced batting lineup (Bavuma, Klaasen, Miller, van der Dussen)
- Quality pace attack (Rabada, Jansen, Bosch)
- Solid all-rounders (Maharaj, Markram)
Challenges:
- Struggles against quality spin
- Pressure while chasing
Pitch Report
The National Stadium in Karachi generally offers a balanced wicket, but as the match progresses, spinners tend to get more assistance. The pitch is expected to be slow, making stroke play difficult, especially in the second innings.
- Batting first could be an advantage, as chasing on a slowing surface might be tricky.
- Spinners will play a key role, particularly in the middle overs.
- Fast bowlers who can hit the deck hard may find some early movement.
Probable Scenarios
- If Afghanistan bats first: They will look to post a total above 260, relying on their openers for a strong start and their spinners to defend it.
- If South Africa bats first: They will aim for a score of around 280-300, using their middle-order firepower to put pressure on Afghanistan’s chase.
- If dew comes into play: The team chasing might get an edge, as conditions could ease up under lights.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
Matches Played: 5
South Africa Wins: 3
Afghanistan Wins: 2
While South Africa has the edge historically, Afghanistan’s recent progress makes them a serious threat.
Key Players to Watch
- Rashid Khan (AFG): The star leg-spinner could be unplayable on a turning track.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): His attacking approach can unsettle South Africa’s pacers early on.
- Kagiso Rabada (SA): South Africa’s go-to bowler, capable of early breakthroughs.
- Heinrich Klaasen (SA): A destructive middle-order batter who can change the game quickly.
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Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Match Prediction
While Afghanistan’s spinners give them an edge in Karachi’s conditions, South Africa’s experience and power-hitting could prove decisive. If South Africa handles spin well, they are likely to secure a win. However, if Afghanistan’s bowlers dominate, an upset could be on the cards.
Prediction: South Africa slight favorites, but Afghanistan has a real chance if they get their bowling plans right.
