The Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE has set a major milestone, becoming the first venue in history to host 250 ODI matches. The landmark was reached during the Afghanistan vs South Africa game on Wednesday. Sharjah, established in 1982, hosted its first ODI in 1984 and has since been a key venue, surpassing Harare Sports Club, which has hosted 182 ODIs.
In the match, Afghanistan secured a six-wicket victory over South Africa. South Africa struggled with the bat, getting bowled out for just 106. Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi (4-35) and AM Ghazanfar (3-20), put South Africa on the back foot early, reducing them to 36-7 before a brief recovery.
Despite early jitters in their chase, Afghanistan comfortably reached the target in 26 overs. Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib guided the team home after South Africa’s bowlers briefly threatened, with Lungi Ngidi and Bjorn Fortuin picking up early wickets.
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South Africa’s innings was marked by a dramatic collapse, with only Wiaan Mulder showing resistance, scoring 52 from 84 balls. Rashid Khan (2-30) and Farooqi ensured there was no major comeback, wrapping up the South African innings in just 33.3 overs.