The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is underway, and cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating Match 3, which features Afghanistan (AFG) taking on South Africa (SA). Scheduled for February 21, 2025, at the National Stadium in Karachi, this encounter promises to be a thrilling contest between two formidable sides. In this blog, we will discuss the AFG vs SA Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update, and all the key insights to help you make informed fantasy cricket decisions.
Match Preview
Afghanistan and South Africa will compete in their first match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 21 at the National Stadium in Karachi. This game is special for Afghanistan as it marks their first appearance in the Champions Trophy, highlighting their fast rise in international cricket. Hashmatullah Shahidi leads the team, which has a strong spin attack led by Rashid Khan. All-rounder Mohammad Nabi adds experience, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz provides power in batting. Their recent 2-1 ODI series win against South Africa in September 2024 at Sharjah has boosted their confidence and proved they can compete with top teams.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, aims to regain their position in ODI cricket. The team has faced challenges, losing eight of their last eleven ODIs in the past year, but they remain determined. The squad includes key players like Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, and the returning Anrich Nortje, who bring both talent and experience.
AFG vs SA Head to Head Records
As of February 20, 2025, Afghanistan and South Africa have faced each other in five One Day Internationals (ODIs). South Africa has secured three victories, while Afghanistan has won twice. Below is a detailed breakdown of their head-to-head record:
| Date | Match Details | Winner | Margin | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 15, 2019 | Afghanistan: 125 all out (34.1 overs); South Africa: 131/1 (28.4 overs) | South Africa | 9 wickets | Sophia Gardens, Cardiff |
| November 10, 2023 | Afghanistan: 244 all out (50 overs); South Africa: 247/5 (47.3 overs) | South Africa | 5 wickets | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad |
| September 18, 2024 | South Africa: 106 all out (33.3 overs); Afghanistan: 107/4 (26 overs) | Afghanistan | 6 wickets | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah |
| September 20, 2024 | Afghanistan: 311/4 (50 overs); South Africa: 134 all out (34.2 overs) | Afghanistan | 177 runs | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah |
| September 22, 2024 | Afghanistan: 169 all out (34 overs); South Africa: 170/3 (33 overs) | South Africa | 7 wickets | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah |
Overall, the head-to-head record between Afghanistan and South Africa in ODIs stands at 3-2 in favor of South Africa.
AFG vs SA Weather Report
On February 21, 2025, Karachi is expected to experience clear skies with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 17°C in the morning to a warm 27°C by afternoon. Humidity levels are anticipated to be moderate, around 50%, with minimal chances of precipitation. These conditions are ideal for the AFG vs SA match, ensuring an uninterrupted and enjoyable game for both players and spectators.
AFG vs SA Pitch Report
Match Details:
- Date & Time: February 21, 2025, 2:00 PM IST
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pitch Type | The National Stadium pitch is traditionally flat and favorable for batting, offering consistent bounce. |
| Pace and Bounce | Fast bowlers may find early assistance with movement off the seam, but conditions generally become more favorable for batsmen as the ball ages. |
| Spin Factor | As the match progresses, spinners are likely to gain traction, especially in the middle overs, due to the pitch’s tendency to offer turn. |
| Dew Influence | Evening matches may experience dew, which can make the ball slippery and challenging for bowlers to grip, potentially aiding the batting side in the second innings. |
| Average First-Innings Score | Historically, the average first-innings score at this venue is approximately 246 runs. |
| Preferred Strategy | Considering potential dew and favorable chasing conditions, teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first to capitalize on early bowling conditions and then take advantage of improved batting conditions under lights. |
AFG vs SA Playing 11 Predictions
Afghanistan Predicted 11:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Rahmat Shah
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Mohammad Nabi
- Rashid Khan
- Noor Ahmad
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Fareed Ahmad Malik
South Africa Predicted 11:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Ryan Rickelton
- Aiden Markram
- Rassie van der Dussen
- David Miller
- Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
- Marco Jansen
- Wiaan Mulder
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Injury and Availability News
Both Afghanistan and South Africa have encountered injury setbacks ahead of their Champions Trophy 2025 opener. Afghanistan’s promising 18-year-old spinner, Allah Ghazanfar, has been ruled out due to a fracture in his L4 vertebra, sustained during their recent tour of Zimbabwe. He is expected to be sidelined for at least four months, missing both the Champions Trophy and the upcoming IPL season. In his place, left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote has been called up to the squad. On the other hand, South Africa will be without their key pacer, Anrich Nortje, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury. The Proteas have yet to announce his replacement.
AFG vs SA Dream11 Prediction
Wicket-Keeper:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG): A dynamic opener known for his aggressive batting style. Gurbaz’s ability to provide explosive starts makes him a valuable asset.
Batsmen:
- Ibrahim Zadran (AFG): A consistent performer who anchors the Afghan innings, Zadran’s reliability adds stability to the batting lineup.
- Temba Bavuma (SA): The South African captain brings experience and composure, essential for building crucial partnerships.
- Rassie van der Dussen (SA): Known for his adaptability and steady scoring, van der Dussen is a key figure in South Africa’s middle order.
- David Miller (SA): A seasoned campaigner capable of accelerating the run rate during the death overs with his power-hitting prowess.
All-Rounders:
- Mohammad Nabi (AFG): A veteran all-rounder offering valuable contributions with both bat and ball, Nabi’s experience is invaluable.
- Aiden Markram (SA): Markram’s versatility allows him to contribute significantly in both batting and bowling departments.
Bowlers:
- Rashid Khan (AFG): A premier leg-spinner renowned for his wicket-taking abilities, Rashid is a game-changer in the middle overs.
- Kagiso Rabada (SA): Leading South Africa’s pace attack, Rabada’s speed and accuracy make him a constant threat to batsmen.
- Noor Ahmad (AFG): A promising young spinner, Ahmad complements Rashid Khan, adding depth to Afghanistan’s spin arsenal.
- Keshav Maharaj (SA): An experienced spinner adept at controlling the game’s tempo and breaking crucial partnerships.
Captaincy Choices:
- Rashid Khan (AFG): His exceptional skill set and consistent performances make him a prime candidate for captaincy.
- Kagiso Rabada (SA): As a strike bowler, Rabada’s potential for taking early wickets makes him a strong vice-captaincy option.
Fantasy Team Suggestion:
- Wicket-Keeper: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Batsmen: Ibrahim Zadran, Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller
- All-Rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Aiden Markram
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Noor Ahmad, Keshav Maharaj
- Captain: Rashid Khan
- Vice-Captain: Kagiso Rabada
This balanced team combines experienced performers with emerging talents, aiming to maximize points across all departments.
Note: Fantasy cricket involves an element of luck, and player performances can vary. It’s advisable to stay updated with the latest team news and player form before finalizing your team.
I love Cricket and Kabaddi and know a lot about them. I like talking about matches and players, helping people understand these sports better. Additionally, I enjoy providing predictions for upcoming games to add an extra layer of excitement for fans.
