'Champions Trophy format tougher than World Cup': Bavuma

South African captain Temba Bavuma believes the Champions Trophy's structure makes it more demanding than the ODI World Cup. The 2025 edition, scheduled to be played in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19, will see teams playing only three league matches before the knockouts, unlike the nine-game group stage in 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," said Bavuma.

South Africa are in Group B alongside England, Australia, and Afghanistan. Bavuma and his team will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on February 21. The Proteas are currently competing in a tri-series against Pakistan and New Zealand, though some key players are missing due to SA20 2025 commitments.

"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," Bavuma added.