Afghanistan make history with unassailable 2-0 lead against South Africa in ODI series

Afghanistan achieved a significant milestone by clinching their first-ever bilateral ODI series victory against South Africa. In the second match held in Sharjah, Afghanistan's dominant 177-run win secured them an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This victory is also their first series win against a top-five ICC-ranked ODI team, making it a historic moment for Afghan cricket.

The triumph was Afghanistan’s largest margin of victory in ODI cricket, surpassing their previous best, a 154-run win over Zimbabwe in 2018 at the same venue. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rashid Khan were the standout performers in this landmark win.

Gurbaz showcased his talent with an impressive century, his seventh in ODIs—the most by any Afghan batter in the format. His innings was well-supported by Rahmat Shah, who scored a solid 50, and Azmatullah Omarzai, who smashed an unbeaten 86 off just 32 balls. Omarzai’s blistering knock included the fastest fifty by an Afghanistan player in ODIs.

Thanks to these contributions, Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 311/4 in their 50 overs, marking the 10th time they have crossed the 300-run mark in ODIs and their sixth-highest score ever.

With the ball, Rashid Khan celebrated his 26th birthday in style, taking a brilliant five-wicket haul that dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup. Nangeyalia Kharote, playing only his third ODI, also impressed by taking four wickets, as South Africa crumbled from a strong 73/0 to being bowled out for just 134.

Afghanistan will look to complete a historic whitewash when they face South Africa in the final ODI on Sunday, September 22.