In the 42nd match of the ICC World Cup 2023 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, South Africa secured a noteworthy victory against Afghanistan, winning by five wickets.
This triumph marked the end of their group stage campaign on a positive note.
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The Proteas had a strong start, scoring 60 runs in the initial 10 overs without losing any wickets. However, they encountered difficulties as wickets fell at intervals during the chase of the 245-run target. Despite these challenges, Rassie van der Dussen anchored the innings with an unbeaten 76 runs, including seven boundaries. Andile Phehlukwayo’s crucial contribution of 39 runs, featuring three sixes, played a pivotal role, with him delivering the winning shot.
Noteworthy performances also came from De Kock (41), Aiden Markram (25), and David Miller (24). South Africa’s next challenge awaits them in the World Cup semi-final against Australia.
Afghanistan, batting first, faced a tough battle against South Africa’s bowling attack. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran departed early, leaving Afghanistan at 41-2 in 9.3 overs. Despite the struggles, Azmatullah Omarzai fought valiantly, scoring 97 runs, supported by Noor Ahmed’s contribution of 24 runs.
Gerald Coetzee, a standout bowler for South Africa in the World Cup, delivered an impressive performance, claiming four wickets for 44 runs in 10 overs. Afghanistan concluded their World Cup journey with eight points out of a possible 18, marking a successful campaign compared to previous World Cups where they secured only two wins in 2015 and 2019.