Sept 23, V7N - South Africa rebounded from two heavy defeats to secure a seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in their final One Day International (ODI) match in Sharjah. Chasing a target of 170, South Africa reached 170 for three in 33 overs, thanks to Aiden Markram's unbeaten 69 and a solid contribution of 26 not out from Tristan Stubbs.

Afghanistan had dominated the series initially, winning the first match by skittling South Africa for a low score and then claiming a 177-run victory in the second ODI. In the third match, Afghanistan elected to bat but struggled, finishing at 169 runs. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the standout performer again, scoring 89 off 94 balls before being caught on the boundary. However, the Afghan innings faltered due to poor decision-making and three runouts, including a bizarre dismissal where Rahmat Shah was run out after a deflected ball hit his shoulder.

Despite losing three early wickets for 80 runs, South Africa maintained their composure, with Markram and Stubbs forming a strong partnership that guided them to victory. Their unbeaten 90-run partnership ultimately sealed the match and restored South Africa's confidence after a tough series.

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