Wed Sep 18 15:51:49 UTC 2024: ## Afghanistan Stumbles in First ODI Against South Africa

**Sharjah, UAE:** The first ODI between Afghanistan and South Africa got off to a shaky start for the hosts, with Afghanistan losing their captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, early in the innings.

Shahidi fell victim to a clever arm ball from Bjorn Fortuin in the 8th over, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 29/1. This followed a cautious start for the Afghan openers, with Riaz Hassan and Shahidi struggling to find their rhythm against a disciplined South African bowling attack.

The South African side, missing several key players due to injuries and commitments to the CPL, fielded a relatively inexperienced lineup. Despite this, they appeared well-prepared, with Fortuin and Lungi Ngidi proving to be formidable threats for the Afghan batsmen.

The match is being played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the temperature hovering above 30 degrees Celsius. Both teams are expected to field full sides, with the hosts hoping to make a strong statement in their first ever ODI series against South Africa.

**Key Points:**

* Afghanistan lost captain Hashmatullah Shahidi early in the innings.
* South Africa is missing several key players but fielding a strong, albeit inexperienced, team.
* The match is expected to be a tight affair with both teams looking to make a strong start.

**Stay tuned for more updates from the 1st ODI between Afghanistan and South Africa.**

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