Afghanistan have recalled fit-again Ibrahim Zadran in their 15-man Champions Trophy squad, amid ongoing calls for teams to boycott matches against them due to the Taliban government's crackdown on women's rights since returning to power in 2021.

South Africa sports minister Gayton McKenzie has called for a boycott of Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy. The call for a boycott has become prominent after the Taliban government's ongoing crackdown on women's rights.

South Africa’s Sports Minister has voiced his strong opposition to Afghanistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy

South Africa are part of Group B in the Champions Trophy alongside Afghanistan, Australia and England. They will start their campaign in the showpiece event against Afghanistan on February 21 at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Politicians from England and South Africa have urged their national teams to boycott their matches against Afghanistan during the tournament. Afghanistan begin their campaign against South Africa in Karachi on Feb.

South Africa picked an experienced 15-man squad for next month’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan with 10 players having competed at the last World Cup in India in late 2023. Temba Bavuma captains the side that plays pool games against Afghanistan in Karachi on Feb.

South Africa announced their 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy on Monday, January 13. SA called-up Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Wiaan Mulder for their maiden ICC tournament.