With a marquee ICC tournament around the corner, the cricketing world's attention turns to Pakistan & the UAE. Come February 19th, our focus will also be on our Seattle Orcas stars who are set to light up the stage at the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The short yet spicy event which will feature 8 top ODI nations is back for the first time since 2017, with co-hosts Pakistan being the defending champions.

Moving to our point of major interest, four of our players will be representing their nations in the race for the silverware. South Africa’s squad includes Ryan Rickelton, Heinrich Klaasen & Lungi Ngidi while New Zealand have named our all-rounder Michael Bracewell in their fifteen-member unit.

Let us take a closer look at what can we expect from our Seattle Orcas stars at the event:

Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa):
One of the most destructive batters going around in world cricket, Heinrich Klaasen will be the lynchpin in the middle-order for the Proteas in their quest for an elusive ICC trophy. With a beastly ODI World Cup in India in 2023, South Africa will have their hopes pinned on him to provide big knocks yet again in Pakistan & Dubai. The 33-year old is on the cusp of 2000 ODI runs & scores at an impressive click (S/R: 116.19). The Podsquad can’t wait to see Klaasie add to his 4 ODI tons & guide the Proteas to ultimate glory.

Ryan Rickelton (South Africa):
Our wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton has been in sizzling form recently across formats & leagues he has been part of. South Africa would be hoping for his silken touch to continue into the Champions Trophy as well. Likely to play a crucial role opening the batting, the southpaw brings his flamboyant style with responsible & aggressive knocks in equal measure. Having featured in 6 ODIs before this, the ICC Champions Trophy could be the breakout tournament for the talented 28-year old! Let’s get those runs & tons in, Ricko!

Lungi Ngidi (South Africa):
Our attacking pacer will be a vital part of the pace bowling cog for the Proteas at the ICC Champions Trophy this year. With his knack of picking wickets at crucial junctures, Ngidi has always been a bowler who has proved his value in gold. Just shy of 100 wickets in 62 ODI appearances, he will be looking to not only cross that mark in Pakistan & Dubai but also be among the top pacers on show at the marquee event. Go well, Lungi!

Michael Bracewell (New Zealand):
Our Kiwi all-rounder possesses the ability to change a game’s course with both bat & ball in hand. Having made a late entry into the national side, Bracewell has always been handy whether it be his off-spin that is difficult to get away or it be his power-hitting, down the order. Michael would be expected to play a crucial role in the subcontinental wickets with his spin & his striking ability at six-hitting venues. His 140* against India will always be a writing of his credentials & his inclusion gives Black Caps’ balance.

As our Seattle Orcas stars don their national colors, it’s time to back them with all we have. Hope the ICC Champions Trophy ends up in your hands!