Ahmedabad: In a thrilling encounter at the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, South Africa secured a five-wicket win against Afghanistan, effectively concluding Afghanistan’s spectacular World Cup journey. Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 76 and a quick 41 from Quinton de Kock played pivotal roles in South Africa’s successful chase of Afghanistan’s target.
Afghanistan, powered by Azmatullah Omarzai’s resilient 97 not out, had set a competitive total of 244 all out in 50 overs. Gerald Coetzee’s impressive 4-44 and Keshav Maharaj’s 2-25 were instrumental in South Africa’s bowling effort.
Chasing 245, South Africa’s openers, especially the aggressive Quinton de Kock, set a solid foundation. However, Afghanistan fought back with early breakthroughs, dismissing Bavuma and de Kock. Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram steadied the ship, but Rashid Khan’s crucial wickets added tension to the contest.
Van der Dussen’s resilient innings, supported by David Miller and Phehlukwayo, guided South Africa to victory despite Afghanistan’s spin challenge. The Proteas reached 247/5 in 47.3 overs, securing a well-deserved win.
Earlier, Afghanistan’s openers provided a steady start, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Maharaj and Coetzee’s strikes reduced Afghanistan to 116/6. Azmatullah Omarzai’s heroic 97 not out, complemented by partnerships with Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad, pushed Afghanistan to a competitive total.
In the end, South Africa emerged victorious, ending Afghanistan’s captivating World Cup journey with a five-wicket win.
Brief scores:
Afghanistan: 244 all out in 50 overs (Azmatullah Omarzai 97 not out; Gerald Coetzee 4-44, Keshav Maharaj 2-25, Lungi Ngidi 2-69)
South Africa: 247/5 in 47.3 overs (Rassie van der Dussen 76 not out, Quinton de Kock 41; Mohammad Nabi 2-35, Rashid Khan 2-47)
Result: South Africa won by five wickets.