Karachi [Pakistan], February 22: After Afghanistan’s defeat against South Africa in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed optimism, stating there were several positives to take from the match, despite the heavy 107-run loss that will significantly impact their net run-rate.
South Africa began their chase for the ICC trophy gold in style, with Ryan Rickelton’s century and Kagiso Rabada’s three-wicket haul being the standout performances in their 316-run defense. Afghanistan’s batting performance faltered, and they were bowled out for 208 runs in 43.3 overs.
“I think we were not good enough while batting. The pitch was helping them in the second innings, but the way we batted in the first 20 overs wasn’t up to the mark. I think the toss was key today, there were many cracks on this pitch. It wasn’t a typical Karachi pitch. Their bowlers, though, bowled disciplined lengths. My expectation was to play well, and though we didn’t win, we have achieved a lot, and we have the ability to fight everywhere. We have some important games left, so we will forget today and look to move forward,” Shahidi said in the post-match presentation.
He further added, “He [Rahmat Shah] played really well; it was an innings in tough times. We will take the positives with us and move forward. We still have a chance to play quality cricket.”
South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first, with a 129-run stand for the second wicket between Rickelton (103 in 106 balls) and skipper Temba Bavuma (58 in 76 balls) setting the foundation. Middle-order contributions from Rassie Van Der Dussen (52) and Aiden Markram (52) saw South Africa reach 315/6 in 50 overs.
Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi was the best bowler for his side, picking up 2/51, while Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azhmatullah Omarzai, and Noor Ahmed claimed a wicket each.
In Afghanistan’s pursuit of 316 runs, they struggled to build partnerships, losing wickets regularly. Rahmat Shah (90 in 92 balls) fought valiantly, but Afghanistan was bowled out for 208 runs, with South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada (3/36) and Wiaan Mulder (2/36) leading the attack. Lungi Ngidi also claimed two wickets, while Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj picked up one each.
Rickelton was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his match-winning century.