Pace Duo Returns for South Africa’s Champions Trophy Squad

Pace Duo Nortje and Ngidi Return for South Africa's Champions Trophy Squad

South Africa has announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, with Temba Bavuma set to captain the side. Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi have returned to the squad. Both fast bowlers have recovered from their respective injuries.

Nortje and Ngidi Are Back

Anrich Nortje returns to the ODI format after being sidelined since September 2023 due to a stress fracture in his back. His absence in the 2023 Cricket World Cup was a big blow for South Africa, but now he’s ready to make a comeback.

Lungi Ngidi also returns to the squad after recovering from a groin injury that kept him out since October 2024. Their comeback boosts South Africa’s pace attack, making the team stronger for the Champions Trophy.

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A Core Squad with Fresh Faces

South Africa has stuck with their core group from the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup. They have retained 10 of the 15 players from that squad. Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder are all set to make their debut in a 50-over ICC event.

Head coach Rob Walter expressed his confidence in the squad, saying, “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.”

Building on Recent Success

South Africa has been on a roll in recent ICC events. They finished as runners-up in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup and have booked a spot in the finals of the upcoming World Test Championship. The Proteas are now eyeing the Champions Trophy title.

Rob Walter highlighted the team’s ambitions, saying, “We’ve managed to maintain the core group of our 2023 World Cup squad, whilst adding fresh talent. 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.”

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.