ICC Champions Trophy, Proteas vs Afghanistan (at 11 am): 'We must master their spin attack'

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is currently underway in Pakistan and the UAE.

Afghanistan makes its ICC Champions Trophy debut, facing South Africa in Group B at 11 am (Friday, 21 February).

The group also features England and Australia, setting up a tough challenge for the newcomers as they aim to make an impact on the big stage.

South Africa came close when they made it to the semi-finals of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2023.

The two teams last met in a three-match series in the UAE in September 2024, where Afghanistan secured a 2-1 victory.

However, South Africa had the upper hand in the 2023 ODI World Cup, defeating Afghanistan by five wickets.

A win in this round will come down to 'how well South Africa bats', according to Fredericks.

"Afghanistan is not a bad side at all... they are a dangerous team and can cause upsets," he adds.

"If we can master their spin attack and get runs on the board, I think South Africa can do well today.

"Our batting will have to be tops in order to contain the spin bowling of Afghanistan."

ICC Champions Trophy, Proteas vs Afghanistan (at 11 am): 'We must master their spin attack' - Jeremy Fredericks