South Africa set 316-run target

South Africa posted a commanding total of 315 runs in their opening Group B match of the ICC Champions Trophy, thanks to a brilliant century by Ryan Rickelton and half-centuries from Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram. 

South Africa opt to bat first after winning the toss.

The decision initially seemed questionable as they lost their first wicket at 28 runs when Tony de Zorzi (11) was caught by Hashmatullah Shahidi off Mohammad Nabi’s bowling. 

However, a crucial 129-run partnership between Rickelton and captain Bavuma steadied the innings. Bavuma scored 58 before falling to Nabi. 

Rickelton anchored the innings with a fine 103 before getting run out, while Van der Dussen added 52. David Miller (14) was dismissed courtesy of a sharp catch by Rahmat Shah off Fazalhaq Farooqi’s bowling. 

Markram remained unbeaten on 52 off 36 balls, while Wiaan Mulder contributed 12 runs, guiding South Africa to 315/6 in their allotted 50 overs. 

For Afghanistan, Nabi claimed two wickets, while Noor Ahmad, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Farooqi got one wicket each.