SA vs AFG / This team will play for the first time in the history of CT, match will be against SA

This article highlights the exciting start of the Champions Trophy 2024 and the historic participation of the Afghanistan cricket team. A total of 8 teams are participating in the tournament, with Afghanistan participating for the first time. The Afghan team's first match is against South Africa, and the squad includes many talented players.

SA vs AFG: The thrilling journey of the Champions Trophy 2025 has begun. In the opening match, New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 60 runs, making a powerful start to the tournament. A total of eight teams are participating in this prestigious tournament: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. The tournament is divided into two groups, and the top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals.

Return of the Tournament After 8 Years

The last edition of the Champions Trophy was held in 2017, and now, after eight years, the tournament has returned to thrill cricket fans once again. This edition promises new challenges and exciting matches.

Afghanistan’s Historic Entry

For the first time ever, the Afghanistan cricket team is participating in the Champions Trophy. Over the past few years, Afghanistan has shown remarkable performances in limited-overs cricket, defeating strong teams like England, Sri Lanka, and Australia, proving their growing prowess in international cricket.

Afghanistan Finished Sixth in the 2023 World Cup

In the 2023 ODI World Cup, Afghanistan performed exceptionally well, winning four matches and securing the sixth position on the points table. Based on this performance, Afghanistan qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Afghanistan Placed in Group B

Afghanistan has been placed in Group B, where they will face strong teams like South Africa, England, and Australia. The team is led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, and their first match is scheduled against South Africa today (February 21) in Karachi. They will then face England on February 26 and Australia on February 28.

Afghanistan Team Squad

Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
Ibrahim Zadran
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Sediqullah Atal
Rahmat Shah
Ikram Alikhil
Gulbadin Naib
Azmatullah Omarzai
Mohammad Nabi
Rashid Khan
Nangyal Kharoti
Noor Ahmad
Fazalhaq Farooqi
Fareed Malik
Naveed Zadran

Can Afghanistan Cause an Upset?

The Afghanistan team is fully prepared to prove its capability in this tournament. With star players like Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran, they have the potential to turn the game in their favor at any moment.

Known for their strong spin attack and aggressive batting, Afghanistan has the potential to cause major upsets in the tournament if they utilize their skills and composure effectively.

Cricket fans can expect thrilling and action-packed matches throughout the Champions Trophy 2024. It will be interesting to see which teams make it to the semifinals and who ultimately claims this prestigious title!