Rashid, Gurbaz's Record-Breaking Night Leads Afghanistan to Historic Win

Afghanistan made history at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium, securing their first-ever bilateral series win against South Africa. After a commanding six-wicket victory in the first match, Hashmatullah Shahidi's team triumphed by an even bigger margin in the second match, winning by 177 runs.

Previously, Afghanistan's largest win by runs was by 154 runs against Zimbabwe. This latest victory against the Proteas, by 177 runs, now stands as their biggest win to date.

On this record-breaking day, Afghan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz set a personal milestone, scoring his seventh century in ODI cricket, the most by any Afghan player.

Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 311 for 4 in their 50 overs, thanks to Gurbaz’s 105 and a rapid-fire 86* off 50 balls from Azmatullah Omarzai.

South Africa, despite a promising start, couldn’t maintain their momentum under Temba Bavuma’s leadership. Celebrating his 26th birthday, Afghan superstar Rashid Khan tore through the Proteas' batting lineup, taking 5 wickets for just 19 runs.

Rashid Khan became the first bowler in ODI history to claim five wickets on his birthday.

South Africa was bowled out for 134 in 34.2 overs, with Rashid Khan earning the Player of the Match award for his dominant bowling performance.

The two teams will meet for the third and final ODI on September 22 in Sharjah, where Afghanistan has the chance to secure a series whitewash against the Proteas.