Ryan Rickelton continued his dream year after hitting a maiden ODI hundred to help the Proteas kick off their ICC Champions Trophy campaign with a 107-run victory over Afghanistan in Karachi.
The 2025 Champions Trophy in Karachi sees Afghanistan making its tournament debut against a South African side eager bounce back from recent disappointments.
Keshav Maharaj is relishing the prospect of being tested on batting friendly pitches in Pakistan when the Proteas get their Champions Trophy campaign underway against Afghanistan in Karachi on Friday.
Captain Temba Bavuma insists the Proteas will not carry any "baggage" heading into the ICC Champions Trophy despite being on a six-match winless run in the ODI format.
Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter has defended his side's paltry showing in their two matches of the Tri-Nation Series in Pakistan this past week.
Pakistan secured a historic seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Karachi on Wednesday, completing their highest-ever run chase in ODI history.