Afghanistan secured a commanding victory over South Africa on Friday, defeating them by 177 runs in the second one-day international, thereby clinching an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series held in Sharjah.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz made history with a century, propelling Afghanistan to a formidable total of 311-4 in their 50 overs. Rashid Khan, celebrating his 26th birthday, then took five wickets to dismantle South Africa's batting lineup, restricting them to just 134 runs. This victory ensured Afghanistan's series win, following their historic first-ever triumph over South Africa in the opening ODI on Wednesday, which they won by six wickets.
Afghanistan dominated the match from the outset after winning the toss and choosing to bat. The South African bowlers struggled on a flat pitch that offered little assistance. Gurbaz became Afghanistan's leading ODI centurion, with seven centuries to his name, scoring 105 off 110 balls. Azmatullah Omarzai contributed an unbeaten 86, ensuring Afghanistan set a challenging target.
Gurbaz maintained a steady pace, reaching his half-century in 56 balls, and nervously approached his century before finally reaching the milestone with a sweep behind square leg. Omarzai's innings included six sixes, coming off just 50 balls, as South Africa's bowlers struggled in the heat.
Rahmat Shah also made a significant contribution with 50 runs before being stumped by debutant spinner Nqabayomzi Peter. South Africa made a promising start to their reply, with captain Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi putting on 73 for the first wicket. However, after Bavuma was caught by Mohammad Nabi off Omarzai, wickets fell rapidly.
Khan, despite battling a hamstring injury, was the chief destroyer with figures of 5-19 in nine overs. Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote finished off the tail with 4-26, sealing Afghanistan's emphatic victory.
