Temba Bavuma reveals why the Champions Trophy is more challenging than the World Cup
South African cricket captain, Temba Bavumastoked debate by declaring the ICC Champions Trophy as a bigger challenge than the 50-over World Cup.
Temba Bavuma explains why the Champions Trophy is harder than the World Cup
Bavuma emphasized that the Champions Trophy format, which has limited matches, makes it difficult for teams to recover from poor start.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 It is scheduled to start in Pakistan and Dubai on February 19th, and South Africa will face Afghanistan in the opening match held in Karachi on February 21st.
“At the World Cup, we have time to stock up and step up. But while we can’t do that with the Champions Trophy, we hope we can take it a step further in the tournament.” He added, “Obviously, this time we’re aiming where we want to participate in the Champions Trophy, but this format makes it even more challenging for the team when we see the 50-over World Cup.”
Babuma explained that teams must perform from the start, as there is little margin of error in the Champions trophy. He noted that the World Cup would provide teams with the opportunity to assess conditions and build momentum as there will be nine group stage matches before the knockout.
South Africa, who lost finalists at the T20 World Cup 2024 and lost finalists at the upcoming World Test Championships (WTC), is currently taking part in the Pakistan and New Zealand Tri-Series. However, after the recently concluded SA20 2025, some key players have not yet joined the team.
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Babuma is confident in South Africa’s bowling resources for CT 2025
Babuma sees the absence of key players as an opportunity for new talent to emerge. He said, “It’s a great opportunity for a few guys to make statements about what value they can add to their teams in the domestic cricket and T20 league.” He also expressed his confidence in spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi.
“Maharaj and Shamshi are currently tough on the spin resources of the Tri series, so they’ll give us a lot of help.” The 34-year-old said.
Despite Anrich Nortje’s absence, Bavuma is confident in his team’s bowling resources and supports the resources available for upcoming ICC tournaments.
“We have a bowler who can bowl at a new ball and a high pace, and we can take some form.” Babuma has added more.
South African Team for the 2025 Champions Trophy:
Temba Bavuma (C), Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Malrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Trazan Stubbs, Ras sie van der Dussen.
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