Newly-Recruited Mumbai Indians Star Dazzles in His Maiden ICC Event Innings; Scores a Sensational Century in Champions Trophy 2025

Ryan Rickelton Shines with Maiden ODI Century in Champions Trophy 2025

South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton captivated the audience in Karachi with a scintillating century during their Group B match against Afghanistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy on Friday. Scoring his first-ever ODI century in 101 balls, Rickelton’s knock included seven boundaries and one six, propelling his team to a solid position.

Key Highlights from Ryan Rickelton’s Performance:

• Maiden ODI Century:
  Rickelton marked his entry in the Champions Trophy with a memorable performance, scoring 103 runs off 101 balls. His innings included seven fours and one six, making it a standout performance for the South African batter.
• Record-Breaking Feat:
  By scoring a century on his Champions Trophy debut, Rickelton became the first South African to achieve this milestone in the tournament.
  • Additionally, Rickelton surpassed the legendary AB de Villiers’ record for the highest score by a South African wicketkeeper in the Champions Trophy. De Villiers had previously held the record with a score of 70 against India in the 2013 edition.
• A Crucial Partnership:
  Rickelton, opening the innings for South Africa, lost his opening partner Tony de Zorzi early (11 runs in the sixth over). However, he formed a pivotal 129-run partnership with captain Temba Bavuma (58), anchoring the innings and stabilizing the Proteas’ score.
• Run Out Dismissal:
  Rickelton’s excellent knock came to an end when he was run out for 103 in the 36th over, but his contribution had already set a solid foundation for South Africa’s total.

IPL 2025 and Career Milestones

• IPL 2025 Auction:
  At the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Rickelton was acquired by the Mumbai Indians (MI) for his base price of Rs 1 crore, marking a significant moment in his career.
• ODI Career So Far:
  Ryan Rickelton made his ODI debut for South Africa against the West Indies in March 2023. In his seven appearances, he has scored 291 runs, averaging 31.33.
  • His performance in the Champions Trophy has been his most impressive to date, highlighting his growing potential as a key player for South Africa in international cricket.
• Selection over Heinrich Klaasen:
  In this match, Rickelton was preferred over Heinrich Klaasen, who was rested as a precautionary measure. This decision proved successful as Rickelton delivered a match-winning performance.

Looking Ahead

With his remarkable century, Ryan Rickelton has cemented his place as a key player for South Africa in the 2025 Champions Trophy. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial as the Proteas look to progress further in the tournament.