Cricket Prediction | Afghanistan vs South Africa | 3rd ODI | Sept 22 – Can SA Break Their Losing Streak and Avoid a Whitewash?

AFG vs SA Match Analysis

In the 3rd ODI of the series, Afghanistan will face South Africa at Sharjah on September 22, 2024. This day-night encounter promises to be an exciting contest as both teams aim to assert their dominance in limited-overs cricket.

Afghanistan, under the leadership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, has been steadily rising in international cricket, boasting a strong lineup of spinners like Rashid Khan and capable batters like Rahmanullah Gurbaz. On the other hand, South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, remains a formidable force in ODI cricket. With a blend of experienced campaigners like Quinton de Kock and explosive all-rounders like Marco Jansen, they will be looking to seal a series win with their balanced squad.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Team Preview & Squads

Afghanistan

AFG’s rise in international cricket has been nothing short of remarkable, characterized by swift development and growing recognition on the world stage. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has been pivotal in this journey, steering the team with calm determination. 

Under the guidance of Coach Jonathan Trott, a seasoned former England player, Afghanistan has honed its tactical approach. Trott’s wealth of cricketing knowledge and strategic insight has transformed the team’s mindset, instilling greater discipline and precision in their game. 

Core players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Rahmat Shah remain central to Afghanistan’s success. Khan’s mastery with the ball, Nabi’s versatility as an all-rounder, and Rahmat’s reliability in the middle order are crucial components of the team’s structure. 

AFG defeated South Africa handily in the opening One-Day International (ODI) in Sharjah on September 18, 2024, winning by six wickets with 144 balls remaining. Only 106 runs were scored by South Africa at the bat as Afghanistan’s bowlers, captained by the dependable Rashid Khan, completely destroyed their squad.

Afghanistan Squads

Afghanistan

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah, Abdul Malik, Azmatullah Omarzai, Bilal Sami, Darwish Rasooli, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, AM Ghazanfar, Gulbadin Naib, Ikram Alikhil (WK), Mohammad Nabi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, Riaz Hassan

South Africa

SA cricket team is under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, has embraced a calm and strategic approach. Bavuma’s composed demeanor and solid batting have been essential in steering the team through tense moments, fostering a sense of confidence and camaraderie among the players. 

At the helm of South Africa’s coaching staff is Rob Walter, whose expertise in player development and tactical planning has greatly influenced the team’s growth. Known for his analytical mindset, Walter has worked diligently to enhance the squad’s skills and strategies. 

The team’s recent achievements have been supported by standout players like Reeza Hendricks, Tristan Stubbs, and Lungi Ngidi. Hendricks consistently lays a strong foundation as a reliable top-order batsman, while Stubbs adds flair and power to the middle order with his aggressive style. 

Afghanistan defeated SA by six wickets on September 18, 2024, in the inaugural One-Day International (ODI) in Sharjah. Afghanistan easily reached 107 for 4 in just 26 overs, but South Africa found it difficult to score, managing only 106 runs. Afghanistan demonstrated their potent bowling attack and smart batting plan with this outstanding performance.

South Africa Squads

South Africa

Temba Bavuma (c) , Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Nqabayomzi Peter, Andile Phehlukwayo, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Lizaad Williams

AFG vs SA Outfield Report

Sharjah Cricket Stadium

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium pitch is renowned for its slow and low bounce, which generally favors spin bowlers, particularly in the later stages of a match. While batsmen can take advantage of the fresh surface early on to execute their shots with relative ease. 

Typically, Sharjah experiences dry and scorching weather, with daytime temperatures often soaring above 35°C, especially during the cricket season. These intense conditions can be physically taxing for players. Sharjah has been a pivotal venue for ODI cricket since the 1980s, with historical trends showing that scores between 220 and 240 were often sufficient for victory. 

Afghanistan vs South Africa Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last three encounters, Afghanistan and South Africa have each secured victories, with Afghanistan winning one match and South Africa winning two.

AFG vs SA Prediction

According to cricket analysts Afghanistan have a 55% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.

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