Champions Trophy: 3 Game changers in South Africa squad

In white-ball cricket, South Africa has been a strong team in recent times. They reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup in India and finished as runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

However, ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy, their form has dipped. In the recent tri-series in Pakistan, they lost both matches—one to New Zealand and one to Pakistan. Before that, they suffered a 3-0 defeat in a home ODI series against Pakistan.

With this momentum, South African fans might be a bit concerned as the tournament approaches. They are placed in Group B alongside Australia, England, and Afghanistan.

Here are the 3 Game changers in the South Africa squad for the Champions Trophy

1. Marco Jansen

This star all-rounder will be crucial for South Africa’s success. Marco Jansen has the ability to score quick runs with big shots down the order while also being a wicket-taking threat, especially with the new ball.

He recently played in the SA20 tournament for Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC). Though SEC fell short of a third consecutive title, finishing as runners-up, Jansen was the tournament's highest wicket-taker with 19 wickets at an economy of 7.14. He also contributed with the bat, scoring 204 runs in 12 innings at an average of 22.66 and a strike rate of 125.15.

2. Kagiso Rabada

The South African speedster will lead the pace attack in the Champions Trophy. With Anrich Nortje already ruled out due to a back injury, Kagiso Rabada will have even more responsibility on his shoulders.

Rabada heads into the tournament after winning the SA20 title with Mumbai Indians Cape Town. He took 12 wickets in eight innings at an economy of 6.53. Although he hasn't played an ODI in Pakistan yet, his record in Asian conditions is impressive—44 wickets in 26 ODI innings at an economy of 5.07.    

3. Heinrich Klaasen 

This explosive wicketkeeper-batter could be a game-changer for South Africa in the upcoming tournament. Known for his hard-hitting ability, Heinrich Klaasen has the talent to turn a match around single-handedly.

He played only one match in the recent tri-series but made an impact, smashing 87 against Pakistan at a strike rate of 155.35. In the SA20 tournament, he continued his form, scoring two fifties in his last three innings for Durban Super Giants, both at a strike rate of over 150.

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