South Africa have now endured one of their most humiliating series defeats in the country's cricketing history with a mammoth 177-run loss to Afghanistan.
Two days ago, the Afghanis recorded their first-ever win over the Proteas with a six-wicket win in the first ODI but no one expected the result to be even more emphatic this time around.
This time, it was the Asian nation who batted first. Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s superb 105 helped Afghanistan set a formidable total of 311-4. In stark contrast, South Africa collapsed to 134 all out in just 35 overs, losing nine wickets for a mere 61 runs.
This performance marked the seventh ODI century for the 22-year-old Gurbaz, who hit 10 fours and three sixes throughout his innings.
After winning the toss, Afghanistan made a strong start. Openers Gurbaz and Riaz Hassan forged an 88-run partnership for the first wicket before Aiden Markram bowled Hassan leg before for 29 runs. Rahmat Shah then joined Gurbaz, contributing a crucial 50 runs in a partnership of 101 before Gurbaz was bowled by Nandre Burger shortly after reaching his century.
Following Gurbaz’s dismissal, the innings slowed slightly, but Azmatullah Omarzai provided a thrilling finish with a blistering 86 runs off just 50 balls, featuring six sixes, creating a challenging target for the South African side.
In response, South Africa’s opening duo of captain Temba Bavuma, who scored 38, and Tony de Zorzi, with 31, added 73 runs for the first wicket. However, their dismissals triggered a dramatic collapse.
Rashid Khan’s outstanding bowling figures of 5-19 in nine overs were complemented by rookie off-spinner Nangeyalia Kharote, who claimed 4-26 in only his third ODI appearance. Rashid’s performance elevated his career total to 190 ODI wickets.
With this victory, Afghanistan secured the series and will aim for a clean sweep in the third and final match in Sharjah on Sunday.
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