Afg vs SA: Afghanistan’s Historic Win in the ODI Series
After beating South Africa in their second ODI, Afghanistan set history with a 177-run win. This is Afghanistan’s first-ever series win over South Africa, and it came with one game left in the series. The match on Friday in Sharjah saw Afghanistan showcase their dominance, especially with the bat, Because with the ball they have been doing this for a long time.
Afg vs SA: A Defining Moment
The Victory of Afghanistan over South Africa was not just a normal win. This was an exceptional, record-breaking performance. With a margin of 177, this was the biggest victory of Afghanistan in ODI Cricket. Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a Key role, scoring 105, his seventh ODI hundred. He became the first Afghan Batter to achieve the milestone surpassing the likes of Muhammad Shehzad, and Ibrahim Zadran. His effort, combined with Azmatullah Omarzai’s Aggressive 86, drove Afghanistan to set a huge total of 311-4.
The Team Effort
From the Top opener aggressive batter, Gurbaz set the tone with his century, Omarzai’s blistering knock 86 off just 50 balls gave the boost at the end that Afghanistan needed. These two big partnerships helped Afghanistan set a competitive total, even in these hot conditions. Rahmat Shah contributed a vital fifty runs as well, keeping the innings going at a constant pace. Omarzai's late fireworks—six sixes among them—pushed the total well over South Africa's ability to match.
When the chase started by South Africa, Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Rashid Khan and Nangeyalia Kharote, took control. Rashid, celebrating his 26th birthday, grabbed five wickets for just 19 runs. I think that was the perfect gift for anybody. Kharote, with his left-arm spin, picked up four wickets for 26 runs. South Africa never got going, losing wickets at regular period. Even though they got a promising start with Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi, the middle and lower order shattered under pressure.
Gurbaz: A Star in the Making
The Knock for Rahmanullah Gurbaz was just amazing. His Contribution to Rahmat Shah was the key to setting a big target for Afghanistan. However, When Gurbaz reached 99, then he looked under pressure and played a maiden over, but he soon swept Aiden Markram to square leg, securing his century. His celebration, forming a heart shape with his hands, displays just how much this milestone meant to him and his teammates.
South Africa’s Struggles
South Africa’s performance was below average. Their bowlers, particularly the pacers, struggled in the tough humid conditions of Sharjah. However, Spinners Bjorn Fortuin and Aiden Markram offered some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to keep Afghanistan’s batters shut for a longer period. South Africa’s batting lineup, in the absence of some key players, couldn’t handle Afghanistan’s spinners.
Temba Bavuma’s return from illness did some resistance. However, his removal on 38, followed by a batting shattered, left South Africa reeling. Rashid Khan’s spin magic and Kharote’s Brilliant spell ensured that South Africa had never been in the business while chasing a relatively big target. They were restricted to 134 runs, all out in just 35 overs.
What’s Next for Afghanistan?
Afghanistan will enter the last ODI with a great deal of confidence. They are going to try to finish with a perfect sweep after having already sealed the series. Despite suffering a hamstring injury, Rashid Khan showed his perseverance and excitement in leading the squad to such a significant victory. The team has gained a new dimension from his leadership and the vigor of younger players like Allah Ghazanfar and Kharote.
Victories such as these show how Afghanistan is a force to be faced with as it continues to develop in international cricket. The next target? South Africa is taken over by a dominant series.
Also Read: Fakhar Zaman Joins Desert Vipers for ILT20 2025 Season
FAQs
What was the margin of Afghanistan’s win over South Africa?
Afghanistan won by a massive 177 runs, their largest victory in ODIs by runs.
Who was the star performer for Afghanistan?
Rahmanullah Gurbaz stood out with his seventh ODI hundred, scoring 105 runs. Azmatullah Omarzai also played a crucial role, adding 86 runs.
How did Rashid Khan perform in this match?
Rashid Khan celebrated his 26th birthday with a stunning five-wicket haul, taking 5 for 19.
What was South Africa’s final score?
South Africa was bowled out for 134 runs in just 35 overs.
Has Afghanistan won a series against South Africa before?
This is Afghanistan’s first-ever series win against South Africa in ODI cricket.
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