Afghanistan and South Africa Clash in Sharjah ODI Opener
The first ODI between Afghanistan and South Africa commenced at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with South Africa winning the toss and electing to bat first. The pitch, measuring 70 yards in all directions, appeared flat but slightly slow, favoring spinners.
South Africa’s innings began with a boundary from Reeza Hendricks off Fazalhaq Farooqi’s first delivery. However, Farooqi struck back in the next over, dismissing Hendricks for 10 runs. Tony de Zorzi joined Hendricks at the crease and played a steady innings, scoring 25 runs before being caught by Rashid Khan off AM Ghazanfar’s bowling.
Aiden Markram, South Africa’s captain, came in at number three and played a patient knock, scoring 30 runs off 45 deliveries. Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne also contributed with scores of 20 and 15, respectively.
Afghanistan’s spinners played a significant role in restricting South Africa’s scoring rate. Ghazanfar finished with figures of 2/35, while Rashid Khan conceded just 20 runs in his 10 overs.
In reply, Afghanistan lost Reeza Hendricks early on, but Tony de Zorzi and Aiden Markram steadied the innings with a 50-run partnership. De Zorzi scored 35 runs before being dismissed by Ghazanfar, while Markram went on to make 60 runs.
Afghanistan’s middle order struggled to build on the platform set by the openers. Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne both fell cheaply, leaving South Africa in a strong position.
However, Afghanistan’s spinners fought back, with Rashid Khan and Ghazanfar taking two wickets each. South Africa eventually reached a total of 189/9 in their 50 overs.
