5 pacers picked as South Africa announce 15-man squad for 2025 Champions Trophy

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The Proteas are eyeing their second title after winning the inaugural edition of the tournament in 1998.

Temba Bavuma will lead the side, as they look to continue their fine run in ICC events of late. South Africa made it to the finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup and the World Test Championship (WTC) and also enjoyed a dominant run until the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Despite the tournament being held in the subcontinent, South Africa have entrusted their pace attack to make an impression. The likes of Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi mark their return to the national setup after missing the home season due to long-term injuries.

Frontline spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi also make their way, with Aiden Markram capable of playing as the third spinner in the playing XI.

With long-term wicket-keeper and opening batter Quinton de Kock retiring from the format after the 2023 ODI World Cup, South Africa have named Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton as potential options at the top of the order to partner with Temba Bavuma.

South Africa's dominant middle-order, similar to their T20 setup, includes Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, and Rassie van der Dussen.

South Africa squad for Champions Trophy 2025

Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen.

"We’ve managed to maintain the core group of our 2023 World Cup squad, whilst adding fresh talent" - South Africa head coach

South Africa suffered a ruthless 0-3 whitewash in the recently held ODI series against Pakistan at home. The Proteas will need to play quality cricket to qualify for the knockouts from a tough group.

“This squad boasts a wealth of experience, with many players having consistently performed in high-pressure situations. That kind of experience is invaluable in a tournament like this. We’ve managed to maintain the core group of our 2023 World Cup squad, whilst adding fresh talent," South Africa white-ball head coach Rob Walters said (via ICC)

“Our recent performances at ICC events show that we’re capable of reaching the latter stages of global tournaments. We’re eager to take the next step and go even further in pursuit of the coveted silverware," he added

South Africa have been drawn in Group B of the Champions Trophy 2025 alongside Afghanistan, England, and Australia. They kickstart their campaign against the Hasmatullah Shahidi-led side on February 21 in Karachi.