Sun Sep 22 03:51:50 UTC 2024: ## Afghanistan Clinches Unassailable 2-0 Lead Over South Africa in ODI Series
Sharjah: A blistering century by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and a five-wicket haul by Rashid Khan on his birthday powered Afghanistan to a historic 177-run victory over South Africa, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
The victory on Friday, September 20th, not only cemented Afghanistan’s dominance but also set a new record for their largest ever ODI win by runs, surpassing their previous best of 154 runs against Zimbabwe.
Afghanistan, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, posted a formidable 311/4 in their 50 overs. Gurbaz’s blistering ton was supported by half-centuries from Rahmat Shah (50) and Azmatullah Omarzai (86*).
In reply, South Africa were bundled out for a paltry 134 in 34.2 overs. While captain Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi forged a promising 73-run opening partnership, the dismissal of the former triggered a dramatic collapse. South Africa lost their remaining 10 wickets for just 61 runs.
Rashid Khan, celebrating his birthday in style, proved to be the architect of South Africa’s downfall, claiming five wickets for a miserly 19 runs.
The final ODI of the series is scheduled for Sunday, September 22nd. Afghanistan will be looking to complete a clean sweep.
First Piper 