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Fans reacted on social media after Afghanistan bagged another dominant win in the second ODI against South Africa to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead in the bilateral series. The Sharjah Cricket Stadium served hosted the encounter on Friday, September 20.
The Hashmatullah Shahidi-led side batted first and got off to an impressive start with an 88-run stand between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Riaz Hassan (29). Gurbaz then added 101 runs with Rahmat Shah (50) before he dismissed for a well-compiled 105 off 110 deliveries. Azmatuallah Omarzai remained unbeaten on 86 off 50, as Afghanistan posted 311/4 on the board in the first innings.
In response, the Proteas were off to a fine start with skipper Temba Bavuma (38) and Tony de Zorzi (31). However, the rest of the batting line-up fell like nine pins as the visitors were bundled out for 134 runs in 34.2 overs. Rashid Khan picked up a fifer, while Nangeyalia Kharote bagged four wickets.
It has certainly been a successful year for Afghanistan, as they beat teams like New Zealand and Australia to reach the T20 World Cup semifinals, and followed it up with this series win against South Africa.
Fans praised Afghanistan for their rise in international cricket and termed them a serious team with the ability to prevail over any side. Here are the reactions on X:
Check out some more reactions:
"As An Afghan.. very proud of our boys. Very well played. Both games.. they dominated South Africa!!" a fan tweeted.
"I'm over the moon for the Afghan cricket team! This is a historic moment for the country and a testament to their hard work and talent. Let's celebrate this incredible achievement!" another posted.
"Afghanistan cricket has come a long way in a few years. They have defeated world class teams. Today Afghanistan can be considered among the top 3 teams in Asia," a fan commented.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz now has the most ODI hundreds by an Afghanistan player
Afghanistan opening batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz etched his name into the history books with his knock, which paved the way for the team to post a strong total. He mustered 105 off 110, with 10 fours and three sixes, and also became the first Afghan player to register seven centuries in the 50-over format.
Gurbaz was the finest batter in the T20 World Cup 2024 with 281 runs in eight innings at an average of 35.12, with a top score of 80 against New Zealand. With his attacking mindset and fearless approach, the 22-year-old is slowly positioning himself as one of the greats of Afghanistan cricket.
The third and final ODI of the series will be played at the Sharjah Stadium on Sunday, September 22.
