AFG vs RSA Match Preview

The bowling performance was a standout aspect of Afghanistan's display in the previous match. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Allah Ghaznafar showcased exceptional skill on the slow pitch, dismissing half of the opposing team within just 8 overs. Ghaznafar's performance was particularly noteworthy, considering it was only his third One Day International.

He received substantial support from Rashid Khan on a surface that favored bowlers.

In terms of batting, the top order exhibited some apprehension, resulting in the loss of quick wickets during the relatively modest chase. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Riaz Hassan aim to provide a solid foundation for the team in this match, alleviating some pressure from the middle order.

Moreover, all-rounders such as Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Gulbadin Naib contribute significant depth to the batting lineup.

Although the team was missing several key players, there remains a wealth of experience and talent represented by Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram, and Tristan Stubbs. Unfortunately, none of these players managed to effectively engage with the ball, and the unwavering opposition ultimately subdued what is typically a formidable batting lineup.

Aside from Wiaan Mulder, the overall batting display was lackluster, necessitating significant self-reflection. Is a mere 48 hours sufficient for a team to acclimatize to world-class spin bowling? We believe it is not.

The bowlers performed commendably, securing four wickets; however, their efforts were insufficient to defend a below-par target. The fast bowlers must depend on precision in conditions where low bounce can pose challenges for the batters. More concerning, however, was the lackluster performance of the South African spinners, who failed to present any real threat.

 

Weather Report

The weather is likely to be clear and warm with temperatures of around 34 degrees. 

Pitch Report

The surface in Sharjah is usually flat and a bit on the slower side. There is plenty of help on offer for the spinners throughout the match. The bowlers who bowl within the stumps will be rewarded. Batting isn’t the easiest job here and the batsmen will have to settle down before playing the big shots.

Notable stats

Fazalhaq Farooqi: Unlikely Leader of the Bowling Attack

Fazalhaq Farooqi bowled a brilliant spell in the last match, picking up 4 wickets. He is now the 3rd seamer from Afghanistan to reach the 100-wicket landmark in ODIs.

Team News

Temba Bavuma missed the previous match and should hopefully be available in this game. 

 

AFG vs RSA Probable 11

AFG Playing 11

  • Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wk)
  • Riaz Hassan
  • Rahmat Shah
  • Hashmatullah Shahidi (C)
  • Gulbadin Naib
  • Mohammad Nabi
  • Azmatullah Omarzai
  • Rashid Khan
  • Allah Ghaznafar
  • Fazalhaq Farooqi
  • Nangeyalia Kharote

RSA Playing 11

  • Reeza Hendricks
  • Tony de Zorzi
  • Aiden Markram (C)
  • Paul Verreynne (Wk)
  • Tristan Stubbs
  • Wiaan Mulder
  • Andile Phehlukwayo
  • Lungi Ngidi
  • Bjorn Fortuin
  • Jason Smith
  • Nandre Burger
This is not the official playing 11 for the match. This is a prediction of the expected playing 11 for each team based on the writers analysis.

Dream11 Prediction

We are backing Afghanistan to win this match. The conditions favor their style of play and will continue to test the South Africans. The gap between the two teams is quite less, especially since South Africa has rested some key players. Afghanistan could very well pick up its first series win against South Africa. 

Top Picks

Rashid Khan: Rashid Khan has picked up at least 2 wickets in each of his last 2 matches against South Africa. He also has an excellent record in Sharjah.

Lungi Ngidi: Ngidi has picked up 5 wickets in his last 5 outings at a bowling strike rate of 41.4.

Aiden Markram: Aiden Markram has scored 253 runs in his last 10 matches at an average of 31.63 and a strike rate of 87.24. 

 

AFG vs RSA Dream11 Team 1

Keeper: R Gurbaz

Batters: R Hendricks, T de Zorzi

All-rounders: A Markram, A Omarzai, W Mulder

Bowlers: Rashid Khan (C), L Ngidi, F Farooqi (VC), B Fortuin, A Ghazanfar

AFG vs RSA Dream11 Prediction - OCB Team Prediction