The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 which will take place from February 19 to March 9, this will be the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, returning after an eight-year hiatus. The hybrid model will see Pakistan and United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosts the competition, and reigning champions Pakistan intend to defend their title.
Tournament format and schedule
The eight participating teams – India, PakistanSouth Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, England, New Zealand and Afghanistan – are divided into two groups of four. The event will begin on February 19, with hosts Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. The much awaited India vs New Zealand group stage match will be held on March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, while the final will be held on March 9.
The Champions Trophy has always been a fiercely competitive tournament, with its compact format allowing little room for error. As teams finalize their squads ahead of the ICC’s January 12 deadline, discussions about team formations 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 contenders. Known for their consistent performances in ICC tournaments, the Proteas are looking to end their long title drought at the event. They last tasted glory at the inaugural edition of the tournament, then known as the ICC Knockout Trophy, in 1998 in Bangladesh. However, since then South Africa have struggled for the Champions Trophy, failing to reach another final and being knocked out at the group stage in 2017.
Temba BavumaThe team has shown promise in recent years, reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite their recent 0-3 loss to Pakistan at home, South Africa remains a strong contender. Their preparations include a tri-series in Multan involving Pakistan and New Zealand, giving them a chance to regain momentum ahead of the tournament.
Key challenges and opportunities
The 2025 Champions Trophy presents unique challenges, especially with matches spread over two different pitches – the spin-friendly tracks of Pakistan and the flat, batting-friendly pitches of the UAE. For teams like South Africa, adapting quickly to different conditions will be key. As the Jan. 12 deadline for roster submissions closes, the selectors are working to finalize their rosters. South Africa in particular will need to strike a balance between experienced campaigners and promising newcomers. With Bavuma at the helm, the Proteas will hope to rely on their in-form players to cope in the high-pressure environment of the tournament.
READ ALSO: South African cricket is responding to the sports minister’s call to boycott Afghanistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Here is South Africa’s predicted squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy
1. Temba Bavuma (captain)
Temba Bavuma is a persistent force at the top of the South African batting order. Known for his composure under pressure, he brings leadership and tactical acumen to the team. While his form in ODIs has been inconsistent of late, Bavuma’s ability to anchor the innings will be crucial on Pakistan’s slow pitches. His captain will play a key role in managing the high-stakes matches.
2. Aiden Markram
A versatile batsman, Aiden Markram is equally adept at playing the attacking and consolidating role. Markram’s ability to play spin effectively makes him a key player in subcontinental conditions. He can also cash in chips with a handy off-spin, ensuring a balanced XI. His recent form in white ball cricket underlines his value to the team.
3. Reeza Hendricks
Reeza Hendricks is a technically sound opener known for his ability to build partnerships. With a knack for finding holes in the powerplay, he often sets the tone for South Africa’s innings. Hendricks has been consistent in the ODIs and will be crucial in the fight against quality pace and spin early on.
4. Heinrich Klaasen (Wicketeer)
One of the most devastating batsmen in the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen’s ability to accelerate in deadly overs makes him indispensable. His wicket-keeping skills add versatility to the team, providing an additional 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 shots in the end can turn games for South Africa. Miller’s ability to handle spin and pace alike makes him a key asset in the UAE’s batting-friendly conditions.
6. Ryan Rickelton
A promising top batsman, Ryan Rickelton is known for his aggressive approach and solid technique. Although relatively new to the international scene, Rickelton has shown flashes of brilliance in domestic cricket. His inclusion adds depth and flexibility to the South African batting order.
7. Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen is a reliable batsman who excels at building innings and rotating shots. His consistency in ODIs makes him the backbone of the South African 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 hitting ability. Known for his fearless stroke play, Stubbs is a game changer in the lower middle order. His agility in the field adds value, making him a dynamic player in the team.
9. Marco Jansen
A tall left-arm pacer, Marco Jansen brings a unique angle to the South African bowling attack. His ability to swing the ball and grab the rebound makes him a potent weapon on any surface. Jansen’s practical hitting skills also make him a valuable all-rounder in the lower order.
10. Corbin Bosch
Corbin Bosch is a versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. Known for his accurate medium pace, he ensures control in the middle overs. Bosch’s ability to finish the innings with the bat makes him a strong contender for the team.
11. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s leading player in ODIs, known for his control and ability to take wickets in the middle overs. His experience on the subcontinental tracks will be invaluable during the Champions Trophy. Maharaj can also contribute valuable runs in the lower order.
12. Tabraiz Shamsi
Tabraiz Shamsi, a left-arm bowler, is a proven wicket-taker in white-ball cricket. His variations and ability to outplay the batsmen make him a match winner, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Shamsi’s ability to break partnerships will be crucial in the middle overs.
13. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada spearheads South Africa’s pace attack, bringing speed, aggression and accuracy. His ability to strike early with the new ball and kill accurate yorkers makes him indispensable. Rabada’s experience in ICC tournaments adds to his value.
14. Anrich Nortje / Wiaan Mulder
- Anrich Nortje: Genuinely fast, Nortje’s raw pace and hostility can rattle shots on any surface. His ability to extract extra bounce will be an asset in Pakistan and UAE.
- Wiaan Mulder: A reliable bowling all-rounder, Mulder provides balance to the team with his ability to bowl tight spells and contribute with the bat in critical situations.
15. Beuran Hendricks / Andile Phehlukwayo
- Beuran Hendricks: A left-arm batsman, Hendricks adds variety to South Africa’s pace attack. His ability to swing the ball makes him effective on the powerplay.
- Andile Phehlukwayo: An experienced all-rounder, Phehlukway’s ability to bowl at different phases and score quick runs in the lower order makes him a versatile option.
READ ALSO: Pakistan’s 15-member squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Predicted
