Is Champions Trophy harder than World Cup? Bavuma thinks so!

Rainbow Nation aka South Africa (SA) will begin their process of figuring out their team combinations and strategy for the upcoming ICC (International Cricket Council) mega showdown Champions Trophy 2025, by playing in the Pakistan ODI Tri-series. Notably, the game of cricket will witness the old lost charm of the tri-series pattern yet again, as the hosts of the tournament, planned to play an ODI series at home to gear up for the big event.

In the same vein, after the first ODI ended in New Zealand (NZ) edging out Pakistan quite dominatingly, the Proteas are currently clashing with the Kiwis in the second ODI. Notably, the game is being played at the renowned Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, as it started on Monday, February 9. However, on the eve of the game, South African skipper Temba Bavuma, came up with a startling remark about the Champions Trophy being tougher than the World Cup.

"In the World Cup, you have time to take stock and step up. But in the Champions Trophy, you can’t do that but we are hopeful of going one step further in the tournament. Obviously, we have our sights on where we want to be in the Champions Trophy this time but the format makes it more challenging for teams when you look at the 50-over World Cup," Bavuma said during the press conference as quoted by Sports Tak.

“It is a lovely opportunity for a couple of guys who have been doing well in domestic cricket and in T20 leagues to make a statement on what value they can add to the team. The tri-series will give us a chance to acclimatise to playing in Pakistan and get knowledge to share it with a wider group and it is also an opportunity for young players to keep on playing in future," he further added.

Maharaj and Shamsi will give us lot of help as we are tight for spin resources: Bavuma

Meanwhile, South Africa have fielded a relatively inexperienced side for the tri-nation ODI series. The key reason for that was that several star players have been busy playing the SA20 2025. However, an unfazed Temba Bavuma rather called it a great opportunity for the youngsters.

Also Read: South Africa announce preliminary squad for ODI tri-nation series, six uncapped players included

Besides, star pacer Anrich Nortje was sidelined due to yet another injury issue. Hence, bowling all rounder Corbin Bosch was handed the chance to replace him for the Champions Trophy. Reflecting on the team, Temba Bavuma backed his side to come good in the tri-series and also in the marquee event. He also discussed the importance of experienced players like Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi as well. Besides, South Africa will kick off their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Afghanistan on February 21, in Karachi.

“Maharaj and Shamsi will give us a lot of help as we are presently tight for spin resources for the tri-series," Bavuma concluded.