South Africa and Afghanistan are gearing up to face each other in the third match of the ongoing Champions Trophy, scheduled for Friday at National Stadium, Karachi. This marks the first match between these two teams in the  tournament as they look forward to taking control of the match.

South Africa have long been one of the most formidable teams, and they come into Champions Trophy with high hopes. Having previously produced some of the best performances, the team boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent ready to make their mark. 

The Proteas would look to go all the way after failing to claim the T20 World Cup title last year. South Africa had made it to the final of the T20 World Cup but suffered a heartbreaking defeat against India. Meanwhile, key players like Aiden Markram, David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma will be crucial in the batting department. While, their bowling attack will be led by Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi. 

On the other hand, Afghanistan have made significant strides in international cricket and continue to punch above their weight on the global stage. They have done massively well in the ODI and T20I World Cups previously and would be hoping to challenge the proteas. Lately, they have earned a reputation for their spirited performances and fighting attitude. They will be a big force for South Africa to handle. 

Afghanistan’s strength lies in their spin bowling department, led by Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Nabi. And, their batting unit, which includes players like Rahmat Shah, Gulbadin Naib and Hashmatullah Shahidi, will need to step up to challenge South Africa’s powerful bowling attack.

Head to Head

Matches - 5

SA Won- 3

AFG Won - 2

SA Probable XI: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi

AFG Probable XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Fareed Ahmed, Fazalhaq Farooqi