Sat Feb 22 06:17:46 UTC 2025: ## Afghan Pacer’s Push Puzzles Cricket Fans in South Africa Victory

**Karachi, Pakistan** – A bizarre incident involving Afghanistan left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi and South African batsman Aiden Markram overshadowed South Africa’s convincing 107-run victory over Afghanistan in a Champions Trophy Group B match Friday.

During the final over, after Markram ran a single, Farooqi, while returning to his mark, appeared to shove Markram at the non-striker’s end. The action, which was captured on camera, left commentators and viewers questioning its intent. While Farooqi initially displayed a serious expression, a wry smile later appeared on his face, adding to the mystery.

Commentators Pommie Mbangwa and Shaun Pollock debated whether the push was friendly or not, with no clear consensus. The fact that Markram didn’t react angrily or shocked further fueled speculation. Adding to the intrigue, Farooqi and Markram are teammates at the Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL franchise. No official action was taken by the match referee.

Despite the unusual incident, South Africa dominated the match. Ryan Rickelton smashed a maiden ODI century (103), supported by fifties from Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Markram, guiding South Africa to a challenging 315-6. Their pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada (3-36), then bowled out Afghanistan for 208, despite a fighting 90 from Rahmat Shah. Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan remained wicketless. The victory firmly places South Africa in a strong position in Group B.

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