In a thrilling encounter at the ICC Men's ODI World Cup, South Africa clinched victory against Afghanistan by five wickets, courtesy of Rassie van der Dussen's unbeaten 76 and Quinton de Kock's aggressive 41 off 47 balls. Despite Azmatullah Omarzai's remarkable 97 not out for Afghanistan, the Proteas emerged victorious in a fiercely contested second innings.
Afghanistan bid farewell to the World Cup with a memorable campaign, marked by stunning wins against England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, leaving an indelible mark on their cricketing history.
The match's second innings witnessed an intense battle between Afghanistan's bowlers and South Africa's batters, with van der Dussen leading the charge for the Proteas, while Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi showcased their experience for Afghanistan.
In the initial innings, Omarzai's resilient 97 not out propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total of 244 all out in 50 overs, overcoming the dominance of South African bowlers Gerald Coetzee (4-44) and Keshav Maharaj (2-25). Chasing 245 for victory, South Africa reached 247/5 in 47.3 overs, securing the win.
South Africa's openers set the tone early, with de Kock's aggressive start and Bavuma's determined presence despite hamstring issues. However, Afghanistan struck back, claiming wickets in the second Powerplay. Van der Dussen and Markram steadied the ship, but Rashid's exceptional spell provided crucial breakthroughs, dismissing Markram and the dangerous Klaasen.
Van der Dussen found support in David Miller, and their partnership weathered the Afghanistan spin challenge. Despite Afghanistan breaking through with Miller's wicket, van der Dussen, alongside Phehlukwayo (39*), guided South Africa to a well-earned five-wicket victory.
In the first innings, Afghanistan's openers provided a solid start, but Maharaj and Coetzee made vital breakthroughs. Gurbaz and Zadran fell early, and Shahidi's wicket left Afghanistan struggling at 116/6. Omarzai stepped up, reaching a patient half-century and forming crucial partnerships with Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad. The Afghanistan tail, led by Omarzai, added 71 runs in the final powerplay, but it wasn't enough as South Africa secured the win.
South Africa's triumph over Afghanistan in this World Cup clash showcased the resilience of both teams. Van der Dussen's stellar innings and Afghanistan's fighting spirit, particularly Omarzai's heroics, provided cricket fans with an exciting contest. The match will be remembered for its intense moments and the significant contributions from key players on both sides.
Brief scores:
Afghanistan 244 all out in 50 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 97 not out; Gerald Coetzee 4-44, Keshav Maharaj 2-25, Lungi Ngidi 2-69)
South Africa 247/5 in 47.3 overs (Rassie van der Dussen 76 not out, Quinton de Kock 41; Mohammad Nabi 2-35, Rashid Khan 2-47)
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