Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa scored 209 for the loss of five wickets. Despite losing Hashim Amla early, South Africa never downed their gear and scored runs quite easily. Q de Kock (45 on 31), captain F du Plessis (41 on 27 balls) contributed a lot. However, it was the innings of AB de Villiers remained crucial for the team once again. AB Devilliers, during his 29-ball innings, sent the ball into the crowds five times and a smashed four boundaries. He scored 64 runs at a strike rate of over 220.
Chasing a mammoth total of 210, Afganisthan batted fearlessly in the beginning. Opener Shahzad headed their attack with a superb knock of 44 from 19 balls. His innings include five maximums and three boundaries. Noor Ali Zadran (25 from 24 balls), Gulbadin Naib (26 from 18 balls), and Shenwari (25 from 14 balls) too contributed decently in their high-run chase against the Proteas, but they proved insufficient to take Afganisthan home at the end.
Credits must be given to Chris Morris, the man of the match, who claimed four wickets in his four overs. Rabada, Abbott, and Tahir shared two wickets each. Wiese who replaced Dale Stayn was the most expensive bowler, conceding 47 runs in his four overs.
No comments: