South Africa secured a five-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their final World Cup group game, marking the end of Afghanistan's journey in the semi-final race. The Proteas successfully chased a target of 245 runs in Ahmedabad, with Rassie van der Dussen playing a key role, making an unbeaten 76. This win serves as preparation for their upcoming semi-final against Australia.

The Proteas, already qualified for the semi-finals, accomplished the task in 47.3 overs, now holding 14 points and maintaining the second spot behind India, who has 16 points.

In the match, Afghanistan posted a total of 244 runs in 50 overs, largely credited to Azmatullah Omarzai's impressive innings of 97 runs. Despite narrowly missing his century, Omarzai made a significant impact for his team. South African pacer Gerald Coetzee contributed significantly, taking 4 wickets to keep the Afghanistan batters in check.

Azmatullah Omarzai reached his half-century, but Afghanistan faced challenges as they lost wickets, slipping to 160 with 7 wickets down. Noor Ahmad and Azmatullah Omarzai remained at the crease, aiming to push the score to around 250.

Afghanistan's openers began cautiously but lost wickets within the first 10 overs. South African spinner Keshav Maharaj dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz, while pacer Gerald Coetzee removed Ibrahim Zadran.

The outcome of the SA vs AFG match has minimal impact on South Africa's ICC World Cup 2023 hopes. Despite the potential drop to the third spot if they lose and Australia wins their subsequent game, South Africa and Australia are set to face each other in the semi-final in Kolkata.

Picture Courtesy: Amar Ujala