Afghanistan stunned South Africa with a dominant six-wicket victory in the 1st ODI in Sharjah, marking their first-ever win against the Proteas. The Afghan bowlers, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi and AM Ghazanfar, bowled out South Africa for a mere 106, showcasing their growing prowess in international cricket. Farooqi’s lethal spell of 4 for 35 and Ghazanfar’s 3 for 20 dismantled South Africa’s top order, leaving them reeling at 36 for 7 in just ten overs.
South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder offered some resistance, scoring a gritty 52 off 80 balls, including the only six of the innings. His partnership with Bjorn Fortuin helped avoid South Africa’s lowest-ever ODI total, but the rest of the batting line-up crumbled under Afghanistan’s pressure. Mulder’s dismissal in the 33rd over sealed South Africa’s fate as they were bowled out in 34 overs.
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Afghanistan’s chase started with a setback when Lungi Ngidi dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz early, but the middle order remained composed. Azmatullah Omarzai contributed 23 runs, while Gulbadin Naib played a key role with an unbeaten 34* off 30 balls. Naib’s aggressive stroke play, including two sixes, helped Afghanistan cruise towards the target.
The victory, completed with 24 overs to spare, was another major milestone for Afghanistan, adding South Africa to the list of high-profile teams they’ve beaten in recent times. Their remarkable rise in international cricket continues, solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in the white-ball format.
