In a stunning display of skill and strategy, Afghanistanof Rashid Khan won his team South Africa in the second ODI of the three-match seriesthe team secured a 177-run victory. The encounter at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah showcased Rashid’s extraordinary talent as he celebrated his birthday with a remarkable five-wicket haul.
Rashid Khan’s bowling masterclass
First Goalkeeper (Top 18): Rashid’s first scalp came when he fooled the South African opener Tony de Zorzi With a fuller delivery that went through the inside edge, it resulted in the keeper being caught Ikram Alikhil. De Zorzi departed for 31 runs.
Second Goalkeeper (Top 24): After a short time he hit again, rejected Tristan Stubbs. A delivery off the surface found its way to his gloves Prophet Muhammad snaring one of South Africa’s best spinners at slip for just 5 runs confirms Rashid’s brilliance.
Third Goalkeeper (Top 24): Rashid continued his attack and sent Kyle Vernon back to the pavilion for just 2 runs. His sharp googly caught Verreynne off-guard, leading to a plumb LBW decision.
Fourth Goalkeeper (Top 26): Wian Mulder he followed, but also fell victim to Rashid’s relentless spin. Another LBW decision, this time for 2 runs, highlighted Rashid’s uncanny ability to read the game and manipulate shots.
Fifer (Top 34): The final nail in South Africa’s coffin was hammered home by Rashid’s fifth wicket – Aiden Markram. A well-executed thug crashed into the stumps, sealing Rashid’s remarkable birthday present. Markram departed for 21 runs.
We present the video:
Birthday celebration done right! 🥳
Rashid Khan rang in style on his birthday by picking up 5 wickets and completely derailing South Africa’s chase. 🔥#AFGvsRSAonFanCode pic.twitter.com/UHbT7RgPtz
— FanCode (@FanCode) September 21, 2024
Also READ: Afghanistan make history with Gurbaz, Omarzai and Rashid’s heroics against South Africa
Afghanistan’s dominance in the series
In the first innings, Afghanistan posted an impressive total of 311 runs, losing only four wickets in the allotted 50 overs. It came from the main contribution Rahmanullah Gurbaz Scored 105 runs, took advantage of the conditions and put up a magnificent score. The team’s deep hitting ability was essential to put pressure on the South African side.
Chasing 312, South Africa scored 134 against a disciplined Afghanistan bowling attack, especially under Rashid’s spell.
With this crucial win, Afghanistan not only claimed the match but also showed their growing prowess in international cricket, securing the series 2-0. Rashid was rightly adjudged Man of the Match for his excellent performance with figures of 5 for 19 in 9 overs.
Going into the final match of the series, Afghanistan had established itself as a formidable challenger on the world stage, leaving South Africa to regroup and rethink its strategy. The final ODI promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a thrilling series.
