Six things Proteas must do to seize momentum against Afghanistan in ICC Champions Trophy opener
The ICC Champions Trophy is known for its fast-paced action and high-stakes drama, and for Rob Walter’s Proteas, the time for complacency is over.
As they prepare to take on Afghanistan in Karachi on Friday (11am SA time start), the South Africans must hit the ground running, armed with a game-plan that will halt their Asian opponents.
Independent Media cricket writer Zaahier Adams, who has covered the last three ICC Champions Trophy tournaments, outlines six pivotal strategies that could set the tone for the Proteas’ journey...
1 Focus on the captain’s form
The performance of skipper Temba Bavuma will undoubtedly influence the Proteas’ results. His impressive overall ODI average of 43.32, complemented by five centuries, must be translated into crucial match contributions.
Despite a dip in form over the past year, Bavuma recently scored 82 in a warm-up match against Pakistan, sparking hopes of a resurgence. However, his major tournament statistics are concerning, with averages of just 18.12 in the last ODI World Cup and 23 in two T20 World Cups. A strong performance on Friday could be the springboard for both him and the team.
2 Who will partner Bavuma?
As the Proteas eye their innings, all indications suggest that Tony de Zorzi is set to partner Bavuma at the crease. The left-handed batsman recently retired on 55 in a warm-up match, showcasing his potential.
Yet, with Ryan Rickelton’s remarkable form, including a 57 against the same opponents last week, a tough decision lies ahead for head coach Walter.
The ultimate choice may hinge on the current form and temperament required for this high-pressure contest, giving the Proteas a chance to start strongly.
Fresh look and mission ready! 🏏🏆💪.
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) February 20, 2025
Catch the Proteas as they take on Afghanistan in their opening match on Feb 21 at 11 am, live on SuperSport 📺. #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/AfOkfxucvR
3 Exploit middle-order strength
The Proteas boast an enviable middle-order packed with talent ready to deliver when it matters most.
Rassie van der Dussen is expected to be stationed at No 3, while Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs, as well as Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen, will battle it out for the remaining spots.
Recent form has raised my doubts about Stubbs, which has left me with the classic line-up featuring Markram at No 4, Klaasen at No 5 and Miller at No 6.
Ideally, it would have been perfect for spin bowling all-rounder George Linde to slot in at No 7 followed by Jansen at 8, but instead ‘Big George’ is toiling away at Western Province in the 1-Day Cup.
So, Jansen at No 7 to accommodate the dual specialist spin options of Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi lower down.
4 Strike hard in the opening Powerplay
The batting-friendly conditions of Karachi demand assertive early strikes. Kagiso Rabada, renowned for his incisive bowling, must aim for early breakthroughs to create momentum.
As demonstrated by New Zealand in their opening victory against Pakistan, a disciplined approach during the Powerplay can set the tone for a match-winning performance.
5 Take wickets in the middle overs
The strategies witnessed in New Zealand’s opener serve as a valuable template for the Proteas. While they tend to rely on express pace, it now calls for a strategic switch as fast bowlers Anrich Nortjé and Gerald Coetzee are both absent.
The spin duo of Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi must not only contain the runs, but also apply pressure to claim crucial wickets during the middle overs in order to break open the game.
6 Approach Afghan spin with confidence
When it comes to spin, Afghanistan pose a significant challenge, with an arsenal led by captain Rashid Khan.
The absence of Sharjah tormentor Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar due to injury is, though, a slight reprieve for the Proteas.
With players like Klaasen, Markram and Miller known for their spin abilities, the objective should be assertive engagement, taking the fight to the Afghan bowlers rather than being passive.
Establishing dominance here will play a vital role in the outcome of the match.