South Africa’s cricket captain, Temba Bavuma, has stirred debate by declaring the ICC Champions Trophy a greater challenge than the 50-over World Cup.
Temba Bavuma explains why Champions Trophy is difficult than World Cup
Bavuma highlighted that the Champions Trophy’s format, with its limited number of matches, makes it difficult for teams to recover from a poor start.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence across Pakistan and Dubai on February 19, with South Africa facing Afghanistan in their opening match in Karachi on February 21.
“In the World Cup, you have time to take stock and step up. But in the Champions Trophy you can’t do that but we are hopeful of going one step further in the tournament.” He added, “Obviously, we have our sights on where we want to be in the Champions Trophy this time but the format makes it more challenging for teams when you look at the 50-over World Cup.”
Bavuma explained that in the Champions Trophy, teams must perform from the outset, as there is little margin for error. He noted that the World Cup provides teams with more opportunities to assess conditions and build momentum due to the nine group stage matches before the knockouts.
South Africa, having been losing finalists in the T20 World Cup 2024 and finalists in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC), are currently participating in a Tri-Series with Pakistan and New Zealand. However, several key players are yet to join the squad after the recently-concluded SA20 2025.
Also READ: South Africa names Anrich Nortje’s replacement for Champions Trophy 2025
Bavuma confident of South Africa’s bowling resources for CT 2025
Bavuma sees the absence of key players as an opportunity for new talent to emerge. He stated, “It is a lovely opportunity for a couple of guys who have been doing well in domestic cricket and in T20 leagues to make a statement on what value they can add to the team.” He also expressed confidence in spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi.
“Maharaj and Shamsi will give us a lot of help as we are presently tight for spin resources for the tri-series,” the 34-year-old said.
Despite Anrich Nortje’s absence, Bavuma is confident in the team’s bowling resources, backing the available resources to come good in the upcoming ICC tournament.
“We have bowlers who can bowl at high pace with the new ball and also get some shape,” Bavuma added further.
South Africa’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy:
Temba Bavuma (c), Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, and Rassie van der Dussen.
Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka
Also READ: Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, New Zealand, South Africa, USA & other countries
