Champions Trophy: Ryan Rickelton reflects on his maiden ODI century
What's the story
South African wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton made his debut in the ICC Champions Trophy memorable with a match-winning century against Afghanistan.
The 28-year-old left-handed batsman scored a brilliant 103 off just 106 deliveries in Karachi.
He hit seven boundaries and one six, maintaining a strike rate of 97.16.
His brilliant performance earned him the 'Player of the Match' award and took South Africa to a winning start in their Champions Trophy campaign.
Here's more.
Post-match thoughts
Rickelton's reflections on his performance and dismissal
Despite his match-winning performance, Rickelton was disappointed with his dismissal and highlighted areas he needs to work on in his game.
He said, "Disappointing to get out always, especially in that manner. Was looking to pull the trigger after that."
"Was nervous coming into today, first ICC event. Was a bit edgy but happy to contribute to the team in a winning performance," the South African star stated during the post-match presentation.
Record-breaking debut
Rickelton's historic achievement in ICC Champions Trophy
Rickelton's century on tournament debut is a first for any South African in the Champions Trophy.
He now joins an elite list of Proteas cricketers such as Herschelle Gibbs, Hashim Amla, Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis, and Gary Kirsten, who also own centuries in the tournament.
Notably, Rickelton's innings propelled South Africa to a mammoth total of 315/6.
The Proteas eventually beat Afghanistan by 107 runs.
Upcoming fixtures
Team support and future matches
Rickelton's performance was further aided by solid contributions from his teammates.
Captain Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*) all scored half-centuries, propelling South Africa to a daunting 315 for six in their fifty overs.
South Africa will face now Australia on February 25 while Afghanistan will face England the next day.
Stats
Maiden hundred for Rickelton
Rickelton departed for 103 off 106 balls as he smoked seven fours and a maximum.
This was his maiden ODI ton as he has raced to 291 runs across seven games at 41.57 (50: 1).
Rickelton featured in his first ODI game against Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, the southpaw scored his seventh ton in List A cricket. He has raced to 3,237 runs at 46.91 (50s: 17).