ICC Men’s World Cup, Ahmedabad
Afghanistan 244 (50 overs): Azmatullah’s Standout 97* (107); Coetzee’s Impressive 4-44, Maharaj 2-25
South Africa 247-5 (47.3 overs): Van der Dussen’s Unbeaten 76 (95), De Kock’s 41 (47); Nabi’s Effort 2-35
South Africa Clinches Victory by Five Wickets
Scorecard and Standings.
In a crucial match of the World Cup, Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 76 was the cornerstone of South Africa’s nail-biting five-wicket victory against Afghanistan in their final group stage encounter.
South Africa’s Gerald Coetzee shone with figures of 4-44, dismantling Afghanistan who were restricted to 244, despite a heroic unbeaten 97 from Azmatullah Omarzai, who almost single-handedly salvaged their innings from a precarious 116-6.
The Proteas’ pursuit of the target was challenging but their determination saw them cross the finish line in the 48th over.
This loss dashed Afghanistan’s slim hopes of reaching the semifinals.
2023 World Cup: Current Standings, Top Run-Scorers & Leading Wicket-Takers
Under Jonathan Trott’s guidance, Afghanistan needed an unlikely mammoth victory margin of 438 runs over New Zealand to remain in the race for the knockout phase. Choosing to bat first, they succumbed to pressure, losing wickets at critical junctures.
They stumbled from a comfortable 41-0 to 45-3, followed by another slump in the middle overs.
Azmatullah was the linchpin of Afghanistan’s innings, pacing his innings smartly and accelerating towards the end, narrowly missing a well-deserved century.
In response, South Africa, known for their dominance when setting totals but less assured in chases, began positively. Openers Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma laid a solid foundation with a 61-run partnership.
Although they lost quick wickets, Van der Dussen and Aiden Markram kept up the momentum with a 60-run partnership. However, Afghanistan kept clawing back with timely wickets, bringing the match to a tense juncture when David Miller departed.
Nonetheless, Van der Dussen, alongside Andile Phehlukwayo, maintained composure. Their calculated approach culminated in an explosive finish, with Phehlukwayo hitting a six, four, and another six to clinch the victory.
Injury concerns, particularly for Bavuma and Lungi Ngidi, loom over South Africa as they prepare for a challenging semi-final against Australia.
Afghanistan’s Memorable Tournament Journey
Afghanistan’s World Cup campaign, though ending in the group stages, was marked by noteworthy victories over former champions England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, as well as a comfortable win against the Netherlands.
Their spirited performance in the tournament, especially the near-win against Australia, firmly establishes them as a force to reckon with in world cricket.
Their achievements in India will undoubtedly boost their confidence in future ICC events, presenting more opportunities to create history.
Post-Match Reflections
Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s captain, expressed determination despite injury concerns, dreaming of reaching the final but acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by Australia.
Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised his team’s performance against top teams, noting the tournament as a significant learning experience.
Player of the Match, Rassie van der Dussen, highlighted the importance of his anchoring role in the chase, acknowledging the team’s need to improve in chasing targets but expressing confidence in their abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cricket World Cup 2023
Q: Who were the standout performers in the South Africa vs. Afghanistan Cricket World Cup match?
A: Rassie van der Dussen was the star for South Africa with his unbeaten 76, while Azmatullah Omarzai’s impressive 97* stood out for Afghanistan.
Q: What was the final score of the match?
A: South Africa chased down Afghanistan’s total of 244 to win with a score of 247-5.
Q: Did South Africa’s win have any implications for Afghanistan’s tournament chances?
A: Yes, South Africa’s victory officially ended Afghanistan’s chances of making it to the top four and progressing in the tournament.
Q: How did Afghanistan perform in the World Cup overall?
A: Afghanistan had a memorable tournament, defeating former champions England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, showcasing their potential on the world stage.
Q: What is South Africa’s next match after this victory?
A: South Africa now prepares for a semi-final clash against Australia in the World Cup.
Q: Were there any notable injuries in the South African team during this match?
A: Yes, there were concerns about injuries to players like Temba Bavuma and Lungi Ngidi during the game.
More about Cricket World Cup 2023
- Cricket World Cup 2023 (BBC Sport)
- Match Scorecard (ESPNCricinfo)
- Afghanistan’s Impressive World Cup Journey (ESPNCricinfo)
- South Africa’s Road to the Semi-Finals (ICC Cricket)
3 comments
So sad, Afghanistan out of tourny, dey played gr8 tho!
injuries worryin south africa, dey need 2 rest b4 semis vs australia #CricketWC
wow, intense match btw south africa & afghanistan, rassie vd dussen was amazin, afghan’s azmatullah too