"Afghanistan Vs South Africa 1st ODI: Afghanistan Stuns South Africa in Historic Win

“Afghanistan Vs South Africa 1st ODI: Afghanistan Stuns South Africa in Historic Win

by

Afghanistan Vs South Africa 1st ODI: Afghanistan’s Historic Victory

Afghanistan pulled off a stunning victory against South Africa in the opening ODI in Sharjah on September 18, 2024. This win marked Afghanistan’s first-ever victory over South Africa in ODI cricket, a remarkable achievement considering they had lost all five of their previous encounters. Afghanistan’s bowlers laid the foundation for this memorable win by triggering a dramatic batting collapse for the South Africans.

South Africa’s Batting Collapse

The match began with South Africa struggling right from the start. Their top order crumbled under the relentless pressure from Afghanistan’s bowlers. By the end of the 10th over, South Africa was in deep trouble at 36/7. Fazalhaq Farooqi initiated the collapse by dismissing Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram in quick succession. Tony de Zorzi fell soon after, giving Farooqi his third wicket.

The situation worsened for South Africa when young offspinner Allah Ghazanfar bowled a brilliant double-wicket maiden, sending both Tristan Stubbs and debutant Jason Smith back to the pavilion for ducks. At 29/5, South Africa looked in danger of recording their lowest ODI total ever.

Wiaan Mulder’s Fighting Fifty

Despite the precarious situation, Wiaan Mulder stood firm and led a brief fightback. Alongside Bjorn Fortuin, Mulder managed to steady the innings and added some valuable runs. However, Rashid Khan soon ended Fortuin’s resistance. From that point on, Mulder played a lone hand, hitting some aggressive shots to bring up a well-deserved half-century. His efforts helped South Africa cross the 100-run mark, finishing at 107.

Afghanistan’s Nerve-Wracking Chase

Chasing a modest target of 108 was not as easy as it seemed for Afghanistan. They had an early setback when Rahmanullah Gurbaz edged to the third man for a three-ball duck. Fortuin then struck again, dismissing Rahmat Shah and putting Afghanistan on the back foot. Riaz Hassan and Hashmatullah Shahidi also fell cheaply, with Afghanistan reduced to 47 runs still needed and four wickets down.

Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai Seal the Win

With the pressure mounting, Azmatullah Omarzai relieved some of the tension with a crucial six. Gulbadin Naib then took charge of the chase, showing his experience and calmness under pressure. He smashed successive sixes off Nandre Burger, guiding Afghanistan back on course. Naib continued his aggressive play, targeting Andile Phehlukwayo and racing to an unbeaten 34. The partnership between Naib and Omarzai ensured Afghanistan reached the target comfortably, securing a historic victory.

This win was not only a significant milestone for Afghanistan cricket but also a demonstration of their growing capabilities on the international stage. With this victory, Afghanistan has now beaten every full-member team in international cricket except India, highlighting their rapid progress in the sport. The team’s outstanding bowling performance and the composed run chase will be remembered as one of the most significant moments in Afghanistan’s cricket history.

112 thoughts on ““Afghanistan Vs South Africa 1st ODI: Afghanistan Stuns South Africa in Historic Win”

  3. you’re really a excellent webmaster. The web site loading speed is incredible. It sort of feels that you’re doing any unique trick. In addition, The contents are masterpiece. you’ve performed a magnificent task in this matter!

    Reply

  4. Thank you for sharing excellent informations. Your web site is very cool. I am impressed by the details that you have on this blog. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this website page, will come back for extra articles. You, my pal, ROCK! I found simply the info I already searched all over the place and simply couldn’t come across. What an ideal site.

    Reply

Leave a comment