Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a 15-player squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. Placed in Group B with Afghanistan, England, and Australia, the Proteas face a tough challenge.
Despite strong performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 and the WTC 2025 finals, South Africa’s ODI form has dipped, including a home whitewash against Pakistan and a series loss to Afghanistan in the UAE. Their 2017 Champions Trophy campaign also ended in disappointment, exiting in the group stages after defeats to India and Pakistan.
1. David Miller
Veteran South African batsman David Miller has been a linchpin in the Proteas’ middle order for nearly a decade. Known for his explosive batting, the left-hander smashed a magnificent century in the semi-finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against Australia, though his efforts couldn’t prevent South Africa from losing the match.
In the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, Miller was South Africa’s third-highest run-scorer, tallying 94 runs in three innings at an average of 47.
2. Keshav Maharaj
Keshav Maharaj, South Africa’s premier spinner, has honed his skills to become a reliable force in limited-overs cricket. Renowned for his accuracy and control, Maharaj will play a vital role in the Proteas’ bowling attack in upcoming tournaments.
Although part of the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy squad, Maharaj didn’t feature in any matches, as South Africa relied solely on Imran Tahir as their spinner.
3. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada, one of the most formidable fast bowlers of his generation, is set to spearhead South Africa’s bowling attack in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Known for his pace and precision, Rabada remains a crucial player for the Proteas.
In the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, however, Rabada had a disappointing campaign, taking just one wicket in three games at an average of 116 and an economy rate of 4.83. South Africa will look to their ace pacer for a much-improved performance to break their ICC tournament jinx.
