WC 2023: Afghanistan’s Must-Win Battle Ends in Defeat Against South Africa in 42nd World Cup Match
Ahmedabad, 10th November 2023: The 42nd match of the ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 took place today at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, featuring a crucial clash between Afghanistan and South Africa. While South Africa had already secured a spot in the knockouts comfortably, Afghanistan faced a do-or-die situation, needing not only a victory against South Africa but also a substantial margin to surpass Pakistan and New Zealand in the race for qualification. However, Afghanistan fell short in this must-win encounter, as South Africa emerged victorious by 5 wickets with 15 balls to spare, resulting in Afghanistan’s exit from the World Cup.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan’s top order delivered an average performance, with Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi failing to make any impact. Azmatullah Omarzai’s unbeaten 97 off 107 balls stood out as a lone effort in Afghanistan’s attempt to secure a knockout berth. They posted a total of 244 runs, being all out on the last ball of their allotted 50 overs.
In the bowling department, Gerald Coetzee starred for South Africa, claiming 4 wickets in his 10 overs, and conceding 44 runs. Lungi Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj took 2 wickets each, while Andile Phehlukwayo grabbed 1.
Chasing a target of 245 runs, Afghanistan’s hopes dwindled in the second innings as South Africa’s batting line-up performed well. Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 76 off 95 balls led South Africa to a 5-wicket victory in the 48th over with 15 balls remaining. From Afghanistan’s bowling department, Mohammed Nabi and Rashid Khan took 2 wickets each, while Mujeeb Ur Rehman claimed 1.
Despite being considered dark horses, Afghanistan’s journey in the tournament concludes without reaching the knockouts. The team created upsets and garnered fan support, but unfavourable results led to their shortfall. Qualifying for the knockouts would have been a historic achievement for Afghanistan cricket, considering their relatively new presence in the international cricket scene.
Looking ahead, two fixtures are scheduled, with Australia facing Bangladesh at 10:30 a.m. in Pune’s Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium and England taking on Pakistan at 2:00 p.m. in Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. England has Champions Trophy 2025 qualification at stake, while Pakistan aims to secure a spot in the ongoing ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 knockouts.
