Gurbaz and Rashid Lead 

Afghanistan to Historic Victory 

By  Lakhwinder singh  Sep 21, 2024

Photo Credit: ESPNcricinfo

Afghanistan secures their most impressive win yet, defeating South Africa by 177 runs. A match filled with incredible performances, highlighted by Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rashid Khan.

Photo Credit: Times of India

Gurbaz's 7th ODI Century 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz smashed an ice-cool 105 off 110 balls, marking his 7th ODI century and Afghanistan's first ever ton against South Africa.

Photo Credit: India Today

Omarzai’s Blistering 86 Off 50 

Azmatullah Omarzai stole the spotlight with a fiery 86* off 50 balls. Nearly two-thirds of his runs came from boundaries, putting Afghanistan in command.

Photo Credit: Times of India

Afghan Batsmen Without Sponsors 

Gurbaz, Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, and Omarzai batted without sponsors, while only Nabi and Rashid Khan had stickers, sending a powerful, unspoken message. 

Photo Credit: Crictoday

Rashid Khan's Hamstring Injury Drama 

Afghanistan’s star, Rashid Khan, suffered a hamstring injury while running between the wickets. Yet, he refused to retire hurt, continuing to play despite the pain.

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Rashid’s Birthday Brilliance 

Despite his injury, Rashid delivered a match-winning performance with 5 wickets for 19 runs on his 26th birthday, becoming the only player to achieve such a feat on their birthday.

Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

Afghanistan’s Ruthless Bowling Attack 

Afghanistan bowled out South Africa for just 134 in 34.2 overs. Nangeyalia Kharote chipped in with 4 wickets in just his second ODI appearance.

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Controversial Stubbs' Dismissal 

A minor controversy emerged when Tristan Stubbs was given out, despite questionable evidence on the TV replays. But this did little to overshadow Rashid’s heroics. 

Photo Credit: India Today

Rashid’s Greatness Shines Through 

My contribution would be key,” Rashid stated after his heroic performance. His 5-wicket haul led Afghanistan to a dominant 177-run victory and a series win over South Africa.

Photo Credit: India Today

Afghanistan’s Bright Future 

This win was a bold statement of Afghanistan’s rising strength in cricket—a landmark victory, signaling their growing prowess with more triumphs on the horizon. 

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