Rickelton century guides South Africa to big win over Afghanistan

South Africa started their Champions Trophy cricket campaign with a dominant 107-run victory over Afghanistan in Karachi on Friday.

Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a superb century, while Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram made key contributions to push South Africa to an imposing 315/6 from their 50 overs.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa suffered an early setback when Tony de Zorzi (11) fell cheaply.

However, Rickelton (103) and Bavuma (58) built a 157-run stand for the second wicket to lay a solid foundation.

Van der Dussen (52) and Markram (52*) capitalized on the platform, ensuring South Africa set a daunting total that put Afghanistan under immense pressure.

Afghanistan’s chase never got going as they lost four wickets for just 50 runs early in their innings.

Despite a valiant effort from Rahmat Shah (90), no other batsman managed to cross the 20-run mark.

The innings folded at 208 in 43.3 overs, with South Africa’s bowlers delivering a clinical performance.

Kagiso Rabada (3/36), Wiaan Mulder (2/36), and Lungi Ngidi (2/56) were the main architects of Afghanistan’s downfall, combining for seven wickets.

South African captain Temba Bavuma praised his team’s execution, stating, “We backed ourselves to set a strong total and then followed up with disciplined bowling. It was close to a complete performance.”

Afghanistan captain Hasmatullah Shahidi was disappointed with his team’s display, admitting, “We didn’t play to our expectations today. Our batting fell short, but we will regroup and aim to improve in the next two matches.”

Following the victory, the top online bookmakers have shortened South Africa’s Champions Trophy odds to +600 positioning them on the fourth +125), Australia (+450), and New Zealand (+450).

South Africa will next face Australia on Tuesday, while Afghanistan will seek redemption against England on Wednesday.