%20(1).webp "afghanistan vs south africa odi series 2024")
The much-anticipated three-match ODI series between Afghanistan and South Africa is set to begin on September 18, 2024, with all matches scheduled to be played at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Both teams are gearing up for this important series, with Afghanistan boasting a strong squad and South Africa looking to bounce back after their T20I series loss to the West Indies. This series is an opportunity for both teams to build momentum ahead of future international competitions, particularly the 2027 ODI World Cup, which South Africa is already eyeing as they introduce several young talents.
Afghanistan's Team Analysis
Afghanistan enters the series with a formidable team, headlined by captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. The side is filled with experienced players, particularly in the spin department, which will be crucial given the conditions in Sharjah. Star performers like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and young prodigy Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar are expected to thrive on the Sharjah pitch, which traditionally assists spinners. Afghanistan’s familiarity with the conditions gives them a significant advantage as they look to dominate South Africa in this three-match series.
The historic Afghanistan vs New Zealand Test match that was abandoned without a ball being bowled in Greater Noida.
With batters like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and all-rounders such as Gulbadin Naib, Afghanistan has a balanced squad. They are focused not just on winning the series but also on continuing their momentum in limited-overs cricket, having performed well in recent outings. The Afghan team's sharp fielding and lethal spin attack will be the key to their success against a somewhat weakened South African side.
Afghanistan Squad:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (c)
- Rahmat Shah
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Ikram Alikhil
- Abdul Malik
- Riaz Hassan
- Darwish Rasooli
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mohammad Nabi
- Gulbadin Naib
- Rashid Khan
- Nangyal Kharoti
- Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar
- Fazal Haq Farooqi
- Bilal Sami
- Naveed Zadran
- Farid Ahmad Malik
South Africa's Team Analysis
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, is entering this series with a youthful squad. After an embarrassing T20I series defeat to the West Indies, the Proteas are looking to get back to winning ways. However, the series is also part of a longer-term strategy as the team management has an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup, with several youngsters being given opportunities to prove their mettle.
The South African squad will be without key players such as Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Rassie van der Dussen, and David Miller. This will put additional pressure on experienced players like Aiden Markram, Reeza Hendricks, and skipper Temba Bavuma to lead from the front. With Lungi Ngidi spearheading the pace attack and Nandre Burger expected to contribute, South Africa will have to rely heavily on their young guns to tackle Afghanistan's spin-heavy lineup.
In the spin department, South Africa appears a bit weak, especially when compared to Afghanistan. However, the team’s core strength will come from its fast-bowling unit and top-order batting. Players like Bjorn Fortuin and Tony de Zorzi have the potential to surprise, but it remains to be seen how they perform in the challenging conditions of Sharjah.
South Africa Squad:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Ottneil Baartman
- Nandre Burger
- Tony de Zorzi
- Bjorn Fortuin
- Reeza Hendricks
- Aiden Markram
- Wiaan Mulder
- Lungi Ngidi
- Andile Phehlukwayo
- Nqabayomzi Peter
- Andile Simelane
- Jason Smith
- Tristan Stubbs
- Kyle Verreynne
- Lizaad Williams
Key Players to Watch Out For
Afghanistan:
Rashid Khan: One of the top spinners in world cricket, Rashid Khan’s role will be critical in these conditions.
Mohammad Nabi: The experienced all-rounder will be a vital player both with the bat and ball.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz: As an aggressive top-order batter, Gurbaz’s performance can set the tone for Afghanistan’s innings.
South Africa:
Aiden Markram: With several senior players missing, Markram will be crucial in holding the South African batting lineup together.
Lungi Ngidi: As the spearhead of the bowling attack, Ngidi will need to lead from the front and pick early wickets.
Temba Bavuma: The captain’s leadership and ability to anchor innings will be essential for South Africa’s success.
Afghanistan vs South Africa 2024 Schedule
The schedule for the three-match series is as follows:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 18 | Afghanistan vs South Africa First ODI | Sharjah Cricket Stadium | 05:30 PM |
| September 20 | Afghanistan vs South Africa Second ODI | Sharjah Cricket Stadium | 05:30 PM |
| September 22 | Afghanistan vs South Africa Third ODI | Sharjah Cricket Stadium | 05:30 PM |
Where to watch Afghanistan vs South Africa ODI Series 2024
Cricket fans across the globe can catch all the live action from the Afghanistan vs South Africa ODI series.
In South Africa: SuperSport Cricket Live
In Pakistan: Tapmad
In India: FanCode