Gurbaz's Heroics Propel Afghanistan to Historic Series Win over South Africa

Rahmanullah Gurbaz equaled Virat Kohli's record for most ODI centuries before turning 23, surpassing Babar Azam. His performance led Afghanistan to a historic series win against South Africa. The third ODI is scheduled for Sunday.

Afghanistan's explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz has equaled Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli's record for scoring the most ODI centuries before the age of 23, surpassing Pakistan's skipper Babar Azam. Gurbaz's solid foundation laid the groundwork for Afghanistan's historic ODI series win over South Africa, marking their first ever victory against a top-five ICC ranked team.

In the second ODI in Sharjah, Gurbaz added a new dimension to the game, dismantling South Africa's bowling plan effortlessly with his impeccable stroke play. He raced to his seventh ODI century, the most by any Afghan batter, surpassing Babar's six centuries before 23 and leveling with Kohli.

With the third ODI set for Sunday, Gurbaz has the opportunity to match legends Sachin Tendulkar and Quinton de Kock, who both scored eight centuries in the format before turning 23. Alongside his seventh century, he forged a crucial 88-run opening partnership with Riaz Hassan. Scoring at a strike rate of 95.45, he amassed 105 runs off 110 deliveries, laced with 10 fours and three sixes, before being bowled out.

After Gurbaz's departure, Azmatullah Omarzai's influential cameo of 86* off 50 balls propelled Afghanistan to a commanding 311/4. In response, South Africa crumbled against Rashid Khan's spin, losing by 177 runs. Despite dealing with a hamstring injury, Rashid's nine-over spell saw him taking five wickets for just 19 runs.

With a 2-0 lead in the series, Afghanistan and South Africa will face off in the third and final ODI on Sunday at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)