ODI PROFILE
south africa
TEAM RANKING
4th
Nickname: The Proteas
Captain: emba Bavuma
Head Coach: Rob Walter
Uniform: South Africa’s cricket team typically sports vibrant yellow and green colors, symbolizing their national identity. The design incorporates modern patterns, and the kit is recognized for its sharp, professional look.
South Africa has a strong history in ODI cricket and has been a competitive force in major ICC tournaments. Known for their resilience and skill, they are one of the prominent teams in the Champions Trophy, having previously won the event in 1998. The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will provide them with another opportunity to challenge for the title on the global stage, as the team qualifies based on the standings following the 2023 Cricket World Cup.
Achievements:
ICC Champions Trophy 1998: South Africa triumphed in the inaugural edition of the tournament, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing history.
Regularly finishing at the top in global ICC events, the team remains one of the favorites in any tournament.
The South Africa national cricket team is also called the Proteas. They are known for their strong performances in One Day International (ODI) cricket. South Africa started playing ODI cricket in 1991 after being readmitted to international cricket. Since then, they have participated in many major tournaments.
One of their best moments was in the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy (now called the ICC Champions Trophy), where they emerged as champions. They have also had impressive performances in other editions of the ICC Champions Trophy, particularly in 2009 when they reached the semi-finals and in 2013, where they finished as runners-up, narrowly losing to India in the final.
One of their best moments was in the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy (now called the ICC Champions Trophy), where they emerged as champions. They have also had impressive performances in other editions of the ICC Champions Trophy, particularly in 2009 when they reached the semi-finals and in 2013, where they finished as runners-up, narrowly losing to India in the final.
South Africa’s cricket team is famous for being competitive and resilient!
Key Players to Watch in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
HE van der Dussen
Why They’re Important
Rassie van der Dussen is renowned for his consistency and ability to anchor innings under pressure, making him a vital cog in South Africa’s batting lineup. Known for his calm demeanor and adaptability, van der Dussen is a reliable middle-order batter who excels in rotating the strike and playing long innings. His ability to stabilize the innings or accelerate when required has proven invaluable in ODIs.
Notable Achievements
Scored an impressive 93 on his ODI debut against Pakistan and followed it with consistent performances, including a century in 2021, where he steered South Africa out of trouble with an unbeaten 123.
Ended the 2019 Cricket World Cup as South Africa’s second-highest run-scorer, displaying maturity and resilience despite limited international experience at the time.
Named in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2021, recognizing his contributions to South African cricket.
Expected Impact in 2025
With his wealth of experience and track record in high-pressure matches, van der Dussen is expected to be a key stabilizer for South Africa in the Champions Trophy. His ability to handle tough situations and build partnerships will be critical, especially against world-class bowling attacks. If South Africa is to make a deep run in the tournament, van der Dussen’s performances will likely be at the heart of their success
T de Zorzi
Why He’s Important:
Tony de Zorzi, a rising talent from South Africa, has demonstrated consistent growth across formats. A technically sound left-handed batter, de Zorzi is particularly known for his ability to adapt to challenging conditions. His aggressive yet calculated approach in the middle order has been pivotal for South Africa in recent matches, providing stability and impetus when needed.
Notable Achievements:
Scored his maiden ODI century against India in December 2023 under challenging conditions, helping South Africa level the series.
Achieved a maiden Test century against Bangladesh in October 2024, showcasing his potential in red-ball cricket.
Made significant contributions in domestic cricket, including a double century in the CSA 4-Day Franchise Series and a stellar record with Western Province.
Expected Impact in 2025:
In the Champions Trophy 2025, de Zorzi is likely to anchor the middle order, a critical role in South Africa’s pursuit of their first ICC title. With his ability to construct innings and accelerate when needed, he will be crucial in adapting to subcontinental pitches in Pakistan. His experience in international and domestic cricket makes him a key figure for the Proteas’ campaign
AK Markram
Why They’re Important
Aiden Markram is a dynamic player and leader for South Africa, excelling across formats. Renowned for his elegant cover drives and aggressive batting style, Markram provides balance with his ability to bowl off-spin. As a former captain of South Africa’s U19 World Cup-winning team, he has a proven track record of thriving under pressure. His leadership qualities extend to domestic leagues, where he has captained teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL and the South African T20I side.
Notable Achievements
International Impact: Markram was instrumental in South Africa’s U19 World Cup victory in 2014, emerging as the tournament’s leading run-scorer.
Big Performances: His career highlights include a Test-best score of 152 against Australia and a remarkable ODI knock of 175 against the Netherlands.
Versatility: With over 6000 runs in domestic cricket and contributions with the ball, he remains a vital all-round option.
Expected Impact in 2025
Markram’s ability to adapt to different conditions will be crucial in the ICC Champions Trophy, particularly as South Africa aims to overcome past struggles in ICC events. With his attacking intent at the top of the order and utility as a part-time bowler, he could be pivotal in setting up or finishing innings. His experience and leadership might also play a significant role in guiding younger players under high-stakes tournament conditions.
Team South Africa Strategies
Past Performances in Champions Trophy
Tournament History
South Africa has participated in all eight editions of the ICC Champions Trophy since its inception in 1998. They made an unforgettable debut by winning the inaugural edition, then called the ICC Knockout Trophy, in Bangladesh. However, the team has often struggled to progress beyond the semifinals in subsequent tournaments, reinforcing the “chokers” tag.
- Appearances: 8 (1998–2017)
- Wins: 1 (1998)
- Best Finish: Champions (1998), Semifinalists in 2000, 2002, 2006, and 2013.
Memorable Matches
South Africa’s performances in the Champions Trophy reflect their strong individual talents and occasional flashes of brilliance, yet their inability to consistently thrive in knockout games remains a challenge. With a history of semifinal finishes, they will look to break this streak in the 2025 edition and reclaim their past glory.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – South Africa’s Fixtures
Click on any match to view more details (e.g., head-to-head stats, key players, venue info).
| Match # | Fixture | Date | Time | Venue | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Afghanistan vs South Africa | Feb 21, 2025 | TBC | Karachi | View Details |
| 2 | Australia vs South Africa | Feb 26, 2025 | TBC | Rawalpindi | View Details |
| 3 | South Africa vs England | March 2, 2025 | TBC | Rawalpindi | View Details |
Knockout Stages
| Date | Fixture | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 5 | Semi-Final: TBC vs TBC | Karachi | View Details |
| March 6 | Semi-Final: TBC vs TBC | Rawalpindi | View Details |
| March 9 | Final: TBC vs TBC | Lahore | View Details |
Fan Corner
Social Media
Stay Connected with South Africa:
Follow us on social media for live updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:
- Twitter: @OfficialCSA
- Instagram: @cricket_south_africa
- Facebook: Cricket South Africa
- YouTube: CSA Official
Join the conversation using #Proteas2025 on social media!
Fun Facts About South Africa:
- South Africa was the first team to win the ICC Champions Trophy in 1998, the inaugural edition of the tournament.
- The Proteas hold a record for the highest total chased in Champions Trophy history: 300+ runs against India in 2002.
Fan Chant/Tradition:
- Chant: Fans rally behind the Proteas with their iconic chant: “Amabokoboko!”, showing their unwavering support during intense matches.
- Colors: Fans proudly wear green and gold to support the team, symbolizing South Africa’s vibrant spirit.
Did You Know?
The Proteas are known for their exceptional fielding and have set numerous records for catches and run-outs in ICC events.
Related Teams
- Australia: Relive the drama of South Africa’s iconic clashes with Australia, including unforgettable semi-finals.
- India: Dive into South Africa’s thrilling encounters with India in ICC tournaments.
- Pakistan: Experience the excitement of South Africa’s dramatic battles with Pakistan.
Please note that player selections and tournament arrangements are subject to change. For the most current information, it’s advisable to follow official announcements from Cricket South Africa and the ICC.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!