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  SA vs AFG: Probable XI Prediction, Pitch Report, and Weather Forecast The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to witness an exciting clash between South Africa and Afghanistan on Friday, February 21, at the National Stadium in Karachi. Both teams are eager to kick off their campaigns with a victory, promising a thrilling encounter for cricket enthusiasts. Match Details Date: Friday, February 21, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM IST (Toss at 2:00 PM IST) Venue: National Stadium, Karachi Broadcast: Live on Star Sports and Sports 18 channels Live Streaming: Available on JioHotstar Probable Playing XIs Afghanistan Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan boasts a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. Their spin attack, featuring Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, is expected to play a pivotal role. Ibrahim Zadran Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) Rahmat Shah Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) Azmatullah Omarzai Mohammad Nabi Gulbadin Naib Rashid Khan Noor Ahmad Fazalhaq Farooqi Farid Malik South Africa Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, South Africa presents a formidable lineup with a strong batting order and a versatile bowling unit. Temba Bavuma (c) Tony de Zorzi Aiden Markram Rassie van der Dussen Heinrich Klaasen David Miller Marco Jansen Keshav Maharaj Lungi Ngidi Kagiso Rabada Tabraiz Shamsi Pitch Report The National Stadium in Karachi is renowned for its batting-friendly surface. Historically, the average first-innings score hovers around 246 runs, but recent matches have seen higher totals, with teams frequently surpassing the 300-run mark. The pitch offers good pace and bounce, benefiting stroke play. While fast bowlers might find some movement with the new ball, especially under lights, spinners are anticipated to gain assistance as the match progresses. Captains winning the toss might prefer to bat first to capitalize on the favorable batting conditions. Weather Forecast Karachi is expected to provide pleasant weather conditions for the match. The forecast indicates clear skies with temperatures starting around 30°C during the afternoon and gradually cooling to approximately 20°C in the evening. There is no significant chance of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted game. As both teams gear up for their opening match of the tournament, fans can anticipate a competitive and entertaining contest. Afghanistan will aim to leverage their spin prowess, while South Africa will rely on their balanced squad to set the tone for their Champions Trophy journey.

             India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025: Clash of Titans in Dubai Opener The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off with a thrilling Group A encounter as India takes on Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, February 20. With both teams eyeing a strong start to their campaign, the match promises to be a high-octane contest between two cricketing nations with contrasting histories but equal determination. India’s Quest for Redemption India, the tournament favorites, enter the Champions Trophy with a point to prove. After their heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, the Men in Blue are eager to reclaim their dominance in ICC events. The 2024 T20 World Cup victory provided some solace, but the Champions Trophy offers a chance to solidify their legacy. Led by the experienced Rohit Sharma, India boasts a star-studded lineup featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah, however, leaves a void in the bowling department. Mohammed Shami will spearhead the attack, supported by the spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. The team’s balance will be tested, especially with the inclusion of five spinners in the squad, reflecting the expected slow nature of the Dubai pitch. Bangladesh’s Underdog Ambitions Bangladesh, often considered the underdogs, are no strangers to springing surprises in ICC tournaments. Under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto, the Tigers will rely on their mix of youth and experience to challenge the Indian juggernaut. The batting unit, featuring Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, and the explosive Soumya Sarkar, will aim to capitalize on any lapses in India’s bowling. The bowling attack, led by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, has the potential to trouble India’s star-studded lineup. Youngsters like Nahid Rana and Tanzim Hasan Sakib add depth and variety to the pace battery, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Nasum Ahmed will look to exploit the spin-friendly conditions. Pitch and Weather Conditions The Dubai International Cricket Stadium, known for its balanced pitches, is expected to offer assistance to both pacers and spinners. Fresh pitches are likely to provide early movement for fast bowlers, while the middle overs could see spinners come into play. Overcast skies and cooler temperatures might further aid the bowlers, making the toss a crucial factor. Key Battles to Watch Rohit Sharma vs Taskin Ahmed: The Indian skipper’s ability to handle Taskin’s pace and bounce will set the tone for India’s innings. Virat Kohli vs Mustafizur Rahman: Kohli’s mastery against Mustafizur’s variations will be a fascinating duel. Mehidy Hasan Miraz vs India’s Middle Order: The off-spinner’s ability to break partnerships could be pivotal for Bangladesh. Predicted Playing XIs India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh. Bangladesh: Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Tawhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana. Match Details Date: February 20, 2025 Time: 2:30 PM IST (Toss at 2:00 PM) Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai Broadcast: Star Sports Network (TV), JioHotstar (Live Streaming) Conclusion As India and Bangladesh lock horns in their Champions Trophy opener, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For India, it’s about asserting their dominance and starting the tournament on a winning note. For Bangladesh, it’s an opportunity to prove their mettle against one of the world’s best teams. With both teams eager to make a statement, cricket fans are in for a treat as the battle for supremacy begins in Dubai.