Champions Trophy 2025: Ryan Rickelton joins Jacques Kallis and Hashim Amla in the elite list

South African opener Ryan Rickelton announced his arrival on big stage with a stunning century in his team’s opening match against Afghanistan at the National Stadium in Karachi during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Rickelton’s maiden ODI hundred propelled South Africa to a strong position after captain Temba Bavuma elected to bat first.

Ryan Rickelton smashes his maiden ODI ton

Facing a challenging Karachi pitch, Rickelton’s innings proved crucial in stabilizing the South African innings. After the early loss of fellow opener Tony de Zorzi for just 11 runs, Rickelton forged a crucial 129-run partnership with captain Bavuma for the second wicket. Bavuma contributed a solid 58 runs, providing valuable support to Rickelton as he built his innings.

Even after Bavuma’s dismissal, Rickelton continued his impressive display, demonstrating composure and control as he approached his maiden ODI century. He reached the milestone with a mix of well-timed boundaries and smart running between the wickets. His innings provided the backbone of South Africa’s total, allowing them to build a strong foundation for a competitive score.

Rickelton’s knock eventually came to an end in unfortunate circumstances, a brilliant run-out executed by Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan off his own bowling. The left-handed batter departed for a well-made 103 off 106 balls, laced with seven fours and a six. This century not only marked a personal milestone for Rickelton but also significantly boosted South Africa’s chances in the match. His innings showcased his growing maturity as a batter and his ability to perform under pressure on the international stage.

South Africa finish their innings at 315/6

Score: https://t.co/QkaDbyiFnj#AFGvSA #ODI #cricket #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/HeMLnjjYT8

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 21, 2025

This century marks a significant moment in Rickelton’s ODI career. He has now amassed 291 runs in just seven ODI matches, averaging a commendable 41.57. His consistent performances and now this maiden century suggest a bright future for the young South African opener.

Rickelton joins the elite of South African batters

With this century, Rickelton joins an elite group of South African batters who have achieved the feat of scoring a century in the Champions Trophy. He now stands alongside cricketing legends such as Herschelle Gibbs, Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis and Hashim Amla. Among these distinguished names, Gibbs holds the record for the most Champions Trophy centuries by a South African batter, with three tons to his name. Rickelton’s inclusion in this prestigious list underlines the significance of his achievement and his potential to become a key player for South Africa in the years to come.

Also WATCH: Mohammed Nabi’s remarkable delivery marks the end of Tony de Zorzi’s innings in Champions Trophy 2025