"Taking revenge of T20 WC semi-final humiliation" - Fans react to South Africa’s shocking batting collapse in 1st ODI against Afghanistan
Fans expressed their amazement at Afghanistan triggering South Africa's batting collapse in the first fixture of the three-match ODI series. The game is currently taking place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Although the Proteas started on a fine note, Fazalhaq Farooqi opened the floodgates for Afghanistan, dismissing Reeza Hendricks (9). The left-arm pacer continued to breath fire with dismissals of Tony de Zorzi (11) and skipper Aiden Markram (2). With the triple strike, Farooqi also entered the club of 100 international wickets.
Piling more misery on South Africa was the 17-year-old pacer Allah Ghazanfar, who got rid of Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, and Jason Smith in quick succession. Interestingly, Ghazanfar was one of the best bowler in the recently concluded Shpageeze Cricket League with 18 scalps in nine games.
After Andile Phehlukwayo was runout, South Africa were in a precarious situation at 36/7 in 10 overs.
Fans praised Afghanistan for their impressive form and also slammed the Proteas on X.
One of the fans pointed out that Afghanistan must be taking revenge of T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final loss, where the Proteas bundled them out for 56.
Some were disappointed with South Africa playing with a second string side and not recalling their top players from CPL. Here are other reactions:
"Earlier this year South Africa played with a depleted side against New Zealand, and now once again against Afghanistan," a user commented.
"Allah Ghazanfar the new spin sensation from Afghanistan! Emerging as a key player, ready to make a mark in the world of cricket. Afghanistan’s rising star!" a fan posted.
"South Africa cricket team never ceases to entertain! Neither does Afghanistan team!" another tweeted.
Wiaan Mulder helps South Africa get out of trouble in AFG vs SA 1st ODI
After a humiliating batting collapse in the powerplay, South Africa needed a hefty partnership to stabilize their innings. Wiaan Mulder and Bjorn Fortuin provided just that as the duo stitched together a 39-run stand for the eighth wicket. Unfortunately, Fortuin was dismissed for 16 off 34 after Rashid Khan breached past his defense.
Mulder is currently at the crease on 23* off 50 and has displayed resilience to take South Africa to 75/8 at the halfway mark. The fast bowling all-rounder also has a double hundred to his name and can be a reliable contributor for the Proteas. It will be interesting to see whether he can steer the team to a fighting total.
Meanwhile, Allah Ghazanfar completed his 10-over spell, giving away only 20 runs and taking three wickets.