South Africa is set to begin its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 journey today (February 21) as they face Afghanistan in their opening match. The highly anticipated clash will take place at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan.

Afghanistan enters the tournament on a historic note, making their debut in the Champions Trophy after an impressive run in ODI cricket. They have proven themselves as a formidable side, capable of challenging even the top-ranked teams. Meanwhile, South Africa, despite recent struggles in the format, arrives with a full-strength squad, eager to make a strong start.

With both teams determined to secure an early victory, fans can expect a thrilling battle between bat and ball in Karachi.

AFGHANISTAN PREDICTED PLAYING XI

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

SOUTH AFRICA PREDICTED PLAYING XI

Temba Bavuma (c), Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke, Rassie van de Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi.