Afghanistan vs South Africa ICC Champions Trophy tips & preview

Afghanistan vs South Africa best bets

Afghanistan vs South Africa match preview

South Africa will be looking to put past heartbreak behind them as they begin their 2025 Champions Trophy campaign against an unpredictable Afghanistan side in Karachi this Friday.

The Proteas are heavy favourites at -227.27 with top cricket betting sites, while Afghanistan sit at +180 to cause an upset. However, with an improving squad and a world-class bowling attack, Afghanistan could be a dangerous opponent in these conditions.

While South Africa have had a shaky preparation, losing heavily in a recent tri-series against Pakistan and New Zealand, Afghanistan come in with momentum after strong performances in recent ICC events. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi, will be key to their chances of competing against a more experienced South African batting lineup.

The National Bank Stadium has been a batting-friendly venue, with an average first-innings winning score of 297 since 2018. While spinners could play a role, expect the quicks to get some assistance early in the day.

Afghanistan vs South Africa team news

Afghanistan’s success in this match will depend heavily on their bowlers — particularly Rashid Khan, who is just a few wickets away from 200 ODI dismissals. The batting unit, led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hashmatullah Shahidi, will need to step up against a strong South African attack.

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

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South Africa’s batting lineup looks strong, with the likes of Heinrich Klaasen, Rassie van der Dussen, and David Miller capable of taking the game away. Kagiso Rabada will lead the bowling attack, with Keshav Maharaj set to be the key spin option.

Likely South Africa team: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada.

Afghanistan vs South Africa betting tips

South Africa enter this match as heavy favourites with the top online bookmakers, boasting a far more experienced and balanced squad. With a powerful batting lineup and a solid bowling attack led by Kagiso Rabada, they should have the edge over an Afghanistan side that is still developing consistency in the 50-over format.

South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, is known for his steady approach at the top of the order, providing a solid foundation for his team. While Afghanistan’s bowlers pose a threat, Bavuma has the technique and temperament to handle them. Given his role in anchoring the innings, backing him to score 30 or more runs is a strong bet at -120.48 with BetOnline.

Afghanistan’s premier legspinner, Rashid Khan, is their biggest weapon, and he will be crucial in restricting South Africa’s scoring in the middle overs. Rashid has an excellent ODI record and is just a few wickets away from reaching 200 in the format. With his ability to deceive even the best batters, backing him for at least two scalps offers a solid price at +100 with BetOnline.

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