Afghanistan’s veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi made history as he became the fourth-oldest player to make his debut in the ICC Champions Trophy. At 40 years and 51 days, Nabi joins an elite list of players aged 40 and above to debut in the tournament. The list includes Donovan Blake (USA, 42y 284d in 2004), Tony Reid (USA, 42y 154d in 2004), Mark Johnson (USA, 40y 318d in 2004), and Howard Johnson (USA, 40y 25d in 2004).
The milestone came as Afghanistan faced South Africa in their Group B match at the National Stadium in Karachi. South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first.
Match Details:
Match: Afghanistan vs South Africa, 3rd Match, Group B
Series: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Date & Time: February 21, 2025, 2:00 PM Local
Current Match Situation:
South Africa is at 4/0 in 1.1 overs with Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton opening the innings. Ryan Rickelton is on 4 runs off 6 balls, while Tony de Zorzi is yet to open his account. Afghanistan started their bowling attack with Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai.
Playing XIs:
Afghanistan:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Noor Ahmad.
South Africa:
Ryan Rickelton (w), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
Nabi’s vast experience and spin-bowling prowess will be crucial for Afghanistan as they look to make an impact in their Champions Trophy campaign.