Sharjah to Host Historic 250th ODI Match - AFG vs SA

Cricket in the subcontinent is currently in full swing, with several Asian teams engaged in Test and ODI action. Afghanistan, having missed out on their Test series against New Zealand due to rain in Greater Noida, now prepares for a new challenge as they face South Africa at a historic venue.

The two teams will compete in a three-match ODI series starting Wednesday, September 18, at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium. This series will mark a significant milestone, as Sharjah becomes the first stadium globally to host 250 One Day Internationals (ODIs). While Afghanistan and South Africa have faced each other five times in ODIs, the Afghan team is still seeking their first victory against the Proteas.

Afghanistan's captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, is determined to break the losing streak and put pressure on South Africa. He expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete, especially given Afghanistan's familiarity with Sharjah, which has served as a second home ground for them. "We know South Africa is one of the strongest teams in the world, but we are confident in playing good cricket and applying pressure. Anything can happen in cricket," Shahidi stated.

Shahidi also emphasised Afghanistan’s spin strength, mentioning that their experience in UAE conditions gives them an advantage. "No one has played more cricket in the UAE than us. Our strength lies in our world-class spinners, and we hope to give South Africa a tough time."

Star player Rashid Khan will return to the squad after recovering from a long-term back injury. Alongside Mujeeb-ur-Rehman and Mohammad Nabi, Rashid will lead Afghanistan’s formidable spin attack, making them one of the most dangerous bowling units in Asia.

South Africa’s interim captain, Aiden Markram, is cautious about underestimating Afghanistan. He praised their impressive run to the semi-finals in the 2023 ODI World Cup, noting that Afghanistan is no longer seen as an underdog on the global stage. "They have some world-class players and showed their capabilities in the World Cup. We will not let complacency set in," Markram said.

Despite missing regular captain Temba Bavuma due to injury, Markram assured that his team is well-prepared to face Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack in Sharjah’s spin-friendly conditions.

Sharjah’s journey as a historic cricket venue began in 1981 with the Cricketer’s Benefit Fund Series (CBFS), organised by Abdul Rahman Bukhatir to honour the contributions of Indian and Pakistani cricket legends. Now, it continues to etch its name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first venue to host 250 ODI matches.