Sept 21, V7N - Sharjah, United Arab Emirates – Afghanistan continued their impressive run in the one-day international series against South Africa, clinching a commanding 177-run victory in the second ODI on Friday. This win gives Afghanistan an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.Afghanistan set a formidable target, scoring 311-4 in their 50 overs, thanks to a record-setting century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who became Afghanistan's most prolific ODI centurion with his seventh century, scoring 105 runs off 110 balls. His innings was complemented by an explosive 86 not out from Azmatullah Omarzai, who hit six sixes and helped propel the team to a strong total.

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Afghanistan capitalized on a flat pitch that offered little assistance to the bowlers. Gurbaz's innings was marked by a steady accumulation of runs, reaching his half-century in just 56 balls before nervously approaching his century. He finally reached the milestone with a well-placed sweep behind square leg.

South Africa's response began positively, with captain Temba Bavuma returning from illness to form a solid opening partnership of 73 runs with Tony de Zorzi.

However, the innings quickly unraveled after Bavuma was dismissed, leading to a rapid succession of wickets.Rashid Khan, celebrating his 26th birthday, was the standout bowler for Afghanistan, taking 5 wickets for just 19 runs in nine overs. His performance was instrumental in dismantling the South African batting lineup, while Nangeyalia Kharote added to the woes of the visitors with 4 wickets for 26 runs.South Africa was ultimately bowled out for 134, marking a disappointing end to their innings. The final match of the series will take place in Sharjah on Sunday, where Afghanistan will aim to complete a clean sweep against the South African side.

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