Despite Afghanistan’s spinners posing a challenge, South Africa secured a hard-fought five-wicket victory with 15 balls to spare, maintaining their second-place standing on the points table.
In the World Cup match between Afghanistan and South Africa on November 10th, Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, opted to bat after winning the toss. Keshav Maharaj’s effective bowling in the initial 10 overs brought a breakthrough, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz on his first ball. Gerald Coetzee followed up, removing Ibrahim Zadran, and Maharaj struck again by dismissing Shahidi.
Despite the setbacks, Azmatullah Omarzai’s resilient partnership with Rashid Khan, who reached a half-century, provided stability. Unfortunately, the partnership ended when Rashid fell to Andile Phehlukwayo. Omarzai continued to anchor the innings with the tail, guiding Afghanistan to 244. He finished unbeaten on 97 off 107 deliveries despite falling short of a well-deserved century.
In their pursuit of chasing Afghanistan’s total, South Africa had a promising start, but the spin prowess of the Afghan bowlers claimed the wickets of openers Quinton de Kock (41) and Temba Bavuma (23). Rashid Khan further intensified the challenge, dismissing Aiden Markram (25) and Heinrich Klaasen (10).
Rassie van der Dussen emerged as the standout performer for South Africa, securing his 15th ODI fifty and anchoring the chase. Despite Afghanistan’s spinners keeping the South African batters under pressure, Van der Dussen’s resilient innings (76) ensured one end remained secure. Contributions from David Miller and Andile Phehlukwayo in the final stages sealed the victory, leaving Afghanistan officially eliminated from the tournament.
Last Updated on November 10, 2023
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