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In the ongoing ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, all eyes are on the upcoming clash between Afghanistan and South Africa, scheduled for February 21 at the National Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan. This match marks a significant moment for Afghanistan as they make their debut in the prestigious tournament.
Afghanistan enters the tournament as a potential dark horse, having displayed impressive form in recent matches, including a series win over Zimbabwe. Their confidence is further strengthened by their historic ODI series triumph against South Africa last year. Key players to watch include Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who has been in outstanding form with an average above 50 in his last seven games, and Rashid Khan, whose leg-spin could prove crucial on Karachi’s spin-friendly tracks.
Meanwhile, South Africa are determined to break their long ICC title drought, having last won a major tournament in the inaugural Champions Trophy in 1998. Led by captain Temba Bavuma, the Proteas will look to leverage their depth and experience. With a formidable bowling attack featuring Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, along with Heinrich Klaasen anchoring the batting lineup after a string of stellar performances, South Africa aims to make a strong statement in the tournament.
AFG vs SA: Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Matches played: 05 | Afghanistan won: 02 | South Africa won: 03 | No result: 0
National Stadium ODI Stats and Records
- Total matches: 79
- Matches won batting first: 37
- Matches won bowling first: 39
- Average 1st Inns scores: 240
- Average 2nd Inns scores: 205
- Highest total recorded: 374/4 (50 Ov) by India vs Hong Kong
- Lowest total recorded: 93/10 (40.4 Ov) by Pakistan Women vs Sri Lanka Women
- Highest score chased: 355/4 (49 Ov) by Pakistan vs South Africa
- Lowest score defended: 123/10 (45.2 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Women
Also READ: AFG vs SA – Afghanistan’s playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 match against South Africa [Predicted]
National Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Karachi’s National Stadium is expected to offer favourable conditions for a high-scoring encounter between Afghanistan and South Africa. While fast bowlers may get some early movement, the surface is likely to become more batter-friendly as the match progresses, enabling free-flowing stroke play. Spinners might get some grip as the ball wears out, though significant turn is unlikely.
Historically, the venue has seen several high-scoring matches, with an average first-innings total of around 240 runs. The weather on match day is expected to be sunny, creating ideal batting conditions while also potentially assisting reverse swing in the later stages. The captain winning the toss may opt to bowl first, as batting often becomes easier under the lights.
