By Razeen Gutta
The Proteas sealed a consolation victory over Afghanistan in the third and final one-day international to avoid a whitewash on Sunday.
Chasing down 170, the Proteas looked comfortable throughout, with Aiden Markram’s unbeaten 69 helping them over the line in just 33 overs.
In the first innings, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter and Andile Phehlukwayo took three wickets apiece to dismiss the series winners cheaply.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the player of the series; and despite being on the losing side, still managed to claim the man of the match award with his 89 off 94 deliveries.
Despite leaving the UAE with a win, South Africa will know that there is still a lot of work to be done as they prepare for an ODI World Cup on home soil in 2027 after losing the series 2-1.
“I feel really proud to peform against quality teams. I want to say congratulations to my team for this big achievement. Looking to continue with the same confidence going ahead,” Gurbaz said post-match.
The Proteas will next take on Ireland in two T20s and three ODI’s which begin on Friday in Abu Dhabi.
Pictured above: Aiden Markram guides SA to victory
Source: @proteasmencsa
