The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fixture between Afghanistan and South Africa saw a dramatic highlight when star pacer Kagiso Rabada provided a breathtaking dismissal to get Ibrahim Zadran back to the pavilion, accompanied by an aggressive send-off that ignited the match. Having won the toss and choosing to bat first, South Africa took advantage of a surface that was providing ample help to the batsmen. The innings were founded on a magnificent century by Ryan Rickelton, who put on a calm but aggressive knock of 103 from 106 balls.
This was supported by captain Temba Bavuma’s steady 58 and Rassie van der Dussen’s calm 52, both of whom provided stability through the middle overs. Then, Aiden Markram added the polish with a scorching unbeaten 52 off only 36 balls, driving the Proteas to a commanding score of 315/6.
Afghanistan, with the huge target of 316 in front of them, were unable to make a good beginning as South Africa’s fast bowlers made full use of the conditions. Rabada, especially, was in great control of his line and length, keeping the Afghan batsmen on the back foot. Ibrahim Zadran had looked like he was settling down initially, getting a few well-placed shots, but Rabada never let him feel fully confident at the crease.
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The defining moment arrived during the 10th over as Rabada bowled in furiously and unleashed a searing 148 km/h delivery. Ibrahim Zadran, seeking to create some space, had completely misread the line and didn’t attempt any contact.
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The ball collided with the middle stump, making it cartwheel, as Rabada let out a celebratory explosion. Blatantly excited, the incensed pacer delivered a vehement send-off towards the departing batsman, laying down his mastery. Zadran’s innings was cut short at a struggling 17 off 29 balls, causing a big dent to Afghanistan’s run chase.
After Zadran’s fall, Afghanistan’s chances of launching a successful run chase started fading fast. South Africa’s pace attack kept striking regularly, with Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi making crucial inroads.
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The Afghan middle order succumbed to relentless pressure, and the collapse put South Africa firmly in command. The lower order showed some resistance, but the Proteas bowlers kept Afghanistan on the back foot for most of the innings, moving toward a commanding victory.
