SA vs AFG: Ryan Rickelton Creates History! Smashes Maiden ODI Century in Champions Trophy 2025
Ryan Rickelton smashed a 101-ball century against Afghanistan on his Champions Trophy debut.
South African opener Ryan Rickelton etched his name in history with a stunning century against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy 2025. The two teams clashed in the third match of the tournament at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, where South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first.
Rickelton, playing his first-ever Champions Trophy match, made the most of the opportunity and delivered a memorable knock.
The Proteas got off to a shaky start as they lost Tony de Zorzi early, but Rickelton steadied the innings with a calm yet aggressive approach. Right from the first ball, he looked in fine touch and brought up his maiden ODI century in an ICC event in just 101 balls.
First South African to Score a Century on Champions Trophy Debut
This innings was not just special for Rickelton personally but also a historic moment for South African cricket. He became the first-ever South African batter to score a century on Champions Trophy debut.
Before this, his highest ODI score was 91 runs against Ireland in 2024, but he went past that landmark with an authoritative innings in Karachi.
Rickelton built his innings carefully. He reached his half-century in 48 balls and continued to dominate both spin and pace with ease. Unfortunately, his innings came to an end in the 36th over when he was run out for 103 runs.
Despite his dismissal, he had already put South Africa in a strong position, laying a solid foundation for the middle order to capitalize on.
Match Situation at the Time of Writing
At the time of writing, South Africa is 218/3 in 39 overs, with Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen at the crease, looking to propel the team to a big total.
