Jobaaj Stories
In the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, South Africa faced Afghanistan in Karachi. South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first. The match marked an important moment for Afghanistan, as it was their debut in the Champions Trophy. South Africa, however, had a slight setback as their star wicketkeeper-batter, Heinrich Klaasen, was absent from the playing XI due to an elbow injury. Klaasen was left out as a precautionary measure while he continues to recover.
Teams and Groupings for the Champions Trophy
South Africa’s playing XI included three pacers and spinner Keshav Maharaj. Afghanistan, on the other hand, fielded a more balanced team, with one fast bowler, two seam-bowling all-rounders, and three spinners, including the renowned Rashid Khan. The tournament also saw exciting matchups ahead, with Australia and England in Group B, and India and Pakistan in Group A alongside New Zealand and Bangladesh. The top two teams from each group will move forward to the semi-finals.
