‘Your time will come’ – Fans react as Afghanistan lose to South Africa in their final game of ODI World Cup 2023
In their final league game of the ODI World Cup 2023, Afghanistan faced a tough challenge against South Africa in match 42, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While they fought valiantly, Afghanistan ultimately bowed out of the tournament, marking the conclusion of a commendable World Cup journey.
Afghanistan’s journey in the 2023 ODI World Cup has been noteworthy, especially considering that this was only their third appearance in the tournament. Although they officially exited the competition, they displayed significant improvement and resilience, earning the respect of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
After their campaign, Afghanistan secured 8 points and claimed the 6th spot in the points table. Their performance against formidable opponents demonstrated a remarkable development in world cricket, with Afghanistan challenging teams that used to overpower them in the past.
In the match against South Africa, Afghanistan won the toss and opted to bat first. The young all-rounder, Azmatullah Omarzai, emerged as the top scorer for Afghanistan. Alongside Omarzai’s impressive knock, valuable contributions were made by Rahmat Shah, Rahmanullah Gurbaz at the top, and Noor Ahmad in the death overs. These efforts culminated in Afghanistan posting a competitive total of 244 runs in their allotted 50 overs.
Rassie Van der Dussen shines as Afghanistan’s World Cup campaign ends!
Afghanistan made South Africa sweat for their victory, pushing them to the brink. South Africa managed to secure the win with only 15 balls left in the game. Rassie Van der Dussen played a crucial role in the chase, top-scoring for South Africa and remaining unbeaten till the end. Notable contributions were also made by Quinton de Kock, Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, and David Miller, although they were eventually dismissed. The 62-run partnership between Andile Phehlukwayo and Rassie Van der Dussen was pivotal in South Africa’s victory, with Phehlukwayo contributing 39 runs from 37 balls.
Rassie Van der Dussen’s match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade for his invaluable contribution to South Africa’s successful run chase.
In the post-match presentation, Afghan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance throughout the tournament. He commended his players for their fighting spirit and their ability to deliver in crucial moments. Shahidi highlighted the significant improvement in their batting department and emphasized that their strong bowling attack, combined with enhanced batting capabilities, makes Afghanistan a formidable team for the future.
Shahidi also took pride in the fact that Afghanistan competed against top-tier teams and fought hard. He reflected on the Australia match, acknowledging the shock they faced due to Glenn Maxwell’s extraordinary batting display. Shahidi concluded by stating that the ODI World Cup 2023 had provided invaluable learning experiences for his team.
While Afghanistan may have exited the tournament, their spirited performances and progress have left an indelible mark, promising a bright future for cricket in the country.
See how fans have reacted:
Afghanistan are making South Africa sweat. They made Australia huff and puff too. Their improvement against teams that use to roll them over is a big development in world cricket.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 10, 2023
Afghanistan have lost the match but they won the hearts of billions of people in India and back at their home. They can a lethal team in coming years. ❤️ #SAvsAFG
— Sunny (@being_sunny1) November 10, 2023
— Rubab Rajput 🇵🇰 (@R_4_Rubab) November 10, 2023
Well played Afghanistan. Chin up. You are the second best team from Asia. Your time will come.
— Indian Stats & Index (@statsfeed_india) November 10, 2023
Afghanistan's World Cup campaign comes to an end, they are the 2nd best Asian team in World Cup 2023, disappointed a lot during 2019 WC followed by T20 WC's but they have made a huge statement in India.
Many stars have emerged, future will be yours, thank you for entertaining. pic.twitter.com/fR9Uhain57
— Mintu Dutta (@MNGamin65372627) November 10, 2023
Well played Afghanistan throughout the tournament. They were deserving to be in Semi Final but they just missed by little margin.
— Statistics of Cricket (@onlycricstats) November 10, 2023
South Africa is too vulnerable in chase. Seems like South Africa performance is dipping and Australia picking up.They need to play their best cricket against Aussies if they want to play their first world cup final.Things are looking gloomy for Africa.
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) November 10, 2023
I still can't believe that Mujeeb dropped that dolly of Maxi. Else they were the righteous 4th team to qualify. So sad.
— Apurv Anand (@apurv_anand) November 10, 2023
