The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Taking place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, which marks its return after an eight-year hiatus. Will see a hybrid model Pakistan and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Defending champions Pakistan, who are hosting the tournament, are aiming to defend their title.
Tournament format and schedule
Eight participating teams – India, PakistanSouth Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan – they were divided into two groups of four people. The event will begin on February 19 and hosts Pakistan will take on New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. India’s highly anticipated group stage match against New Zealand will be played on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, while the final will be played on March 9.
The Champions Trophy has always been a fiercely competitive tournament, with a compact format that leaves little room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead of the January 12 ICC deadline, debates over team composition and strategies are heating up.
South Africa’s chances in the tournament
South Africa will enter the 2025 Champions Trophy as one of the potential candidates. Known for their consistent performances in ICC tournaments, the Proteas are aiming to end their long drought in the event. They last tasted glory in 1998 in the inaugural edition of the tournament known as the ICC Knockout Trophy held in Bangladesh. But since then, South Africa have struggled at the Champions Trophy, failing to reach another final and losing in the group stage in 2017.
Temba Bavuma‘s side has shown promise in recent years by reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite a recent 0-3 defeat at home against Pakistan, South Africa remains a strong contender. Their preparations include a tri-series involving Pakistan and New Zealand in Multan, giving them a chance to regain momentum ahead of the tournament.
Key challenges and opportunities
Champions Trophy 2025 presents unique challenges, especially with matches spread across two different venues – the spin-friendly tracks of Pakistan and the flat, batting-friendly pitches of the UAE. For teams like South Africa, it will be very important to adapt quickly to different conditions. As the Jan. 12 deadline to submit squads approaches, voters are working to finalize their rosters. South Africa in particular will have to strike a balance between seasoned campaigners and promising newcomers. With Bavuma leading the way, the Proteas will hope to rely on their in-form players to navigate the high-pressure environment of the tournament.
Also READ: South African cricket responds to sports minister’s call to boycott Afghanistan in Champions Trophy 2025.
South Africa’s predicted squad for Champions Trophy 2025
1. Temba Bavuma (captain)
Temba Bavuma is a steady force at the top of South Africa’s batting order. Known for his composure under pressure, he brings leadership and tactical skill to the team. Although his form in ODIs has been erratic of late, Bavuma’s ability to anchor the innings will be key on slow Pakistan pitches. His captaincy will be crucial in navigating high-stakes matches.
2. Aiden Markram
A versatile forward, Aiden Markram is equally adept in attacking and consolidating roles. Markram’s ability to play effective spin makes him a key player in subcontinental conditions. He can also chip in with comfortable off-spin that provides balance to the XI. His recent form in white-ball cricket highlights his value to the team.
3. Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks is a technically sound opener known for her ability to build partnerships. With his ability to find gaps in the power play, he often sets the tone for South Africa’s innings. Hendricks has been consistent in ODIs and will be crucial in tackling early quality pace and spin.
4. Heinrich Klaasen (goalkeeper)
One of the most devastating batsmen in the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen’s ability to accelerate at the death makes him indispensable. His cover skills add versatility to the squad, providing an extra option behind the stumps. Klaasen’s recent heroics in white-ball cricket highlight his game-changing potential.
5. David Miller
Experienced southpaw David Miller is a reliable finisher who thrives under pressure. His powerful knock in the final could be a game-changer for South Africa. Miller’s ability to handle spin and pace alike makes him a vital asset for UAE in batting-friendly conditions.
6. Ryan Rickelton
A promising senior pitcher, Ryan Rickelton is known for his aggressive approach and solid technique. Although relatively new to the international scene, Rickelton has shown 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 setting up shots and rotating the shot. 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 critical in high-pressure games.
8. Tristan Stubbs
Tristan Stubbs is an exciting young talent with explosive shooting ability. Known for his fearless hitting game, Stubbs is a low-middle order game changer. His flexibility on the pitch adds value by making him a dynamic player in the squad.
9. Marco Jansen
Tall left-arm pacer Marco Jansen brings a unique angle to South Africa’s bowling attack. His ability to swing and bounce the ball makes him a powerful weapon on any surface. Jansen’s handy batting skills also make him a valuable lower-order all-rounder.
10. Corbin Bosh
Corbin Bosch is a versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. Known for its precise mid-pace, it provides control in the medium overs. Bosch’s ability to finish the innings with the bat makes him a strong contender for the lineup.
11. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s most frequent spinner in ODIs, known for his control and ability to score in the middle innings. His experience on subcontinental tracks will be invaluable during the Champions Trophy. Maharaj can also contribute runs priced below the order.
12. Tabreez Shamsi
Left-arm wrist spinner Tabreez Shamsi is a tried and tested wicketkeeper in white ball cricket. His ability to bowl variations and overs make him a match-winner, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Shamsi’s ability to break partnerships will play a key role in the middle orders.
13. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is the spearhead of South Africa’s pace attack, bringing 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: Truely fast, Nortje’s raw pace and hostility can rattle any surface. His ability to get extra bounce will be active in Pakistan and UAE.
- Wian Mulder: A reliable seam-bowling all-rounder, Mulder provides balance to the team with his ability to bowl tight spells and help with the bat in tight situations.
15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo
- Beuran Hendricks: Left-arm seamer Hendricks adds variety to South Africa’s fast 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 at different stages and get quick runs in the lower order makes him a versatile option.
