Rickelton’s Century Powers South Africa to 107-Run Victory Over Afghanistan in Champions Trophy

South Africa clinched a commanding 107-run victory over Afghanistan in their Group B match of the Champions Trophy, thanks to a brilliant century from opener Ryan Rickelton. This was Rickelton’s maiden ODI century.

After winning the toss at Karachi’s National Stadium, South Africa opted to bat first and posted a competitive total of 315/6 in 50 overs. Rickelton played a superb knock of 103 off 106 balls, which included seven boundaries and a six. He received valuable support from skipper Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*).

For Afghanistan, Mohammad Nabi picked up 2 wickets for 51 runs, while star leg-spinner Rashid Khan had a disappointing outing, conceding 59 runs in his 10 overs without taking a wicket.

Chasing a daunting target of 316, Afghanistan crumbled under pressure, losing four wickets for just 50 runs. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (10) and Ibrahim Zadran (17) departed early, while captain Hashmatullah Shahidi was dismissed for a duck, leaving Afghanistan in deep trouble.

Rahmat Shah put up some resistance with a fighting 90 off 92 balls, but South Africa’s pacers maintained tight control. Kagiso Rabada led the attack with figures of 3/36, while Wiaan Mulder (2/36) and Lungi Ngidi (2/56) ensured Afghanistan were bowled out for 208 in 43.3 overs.

Rashid Khan played a brief cameo, scoring 18 off 13 balls, but it wasn’t enough to alter the outcome as South Africa sealed a comfortable win.