Afghanistan had a historic moment in their cricketing history as they took on South Africa in their first-ever match in the Champions Trophy at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Friday (February 21). However, they suffered a crushing loss by 107 runs. Even though they lost, the Afghans still do not have to lose hope as they have a realistic chance of qualifying for the semi-final.

After the loss against South Africa, Afghanistan next take on England in Lahore on February 26 (Wednesday). This will be followed by an encounter against Australia on February 28 (Friday) in Lahore.

If Afghanistan want to qualify for the semi-final of the competition, then they need to win both their remaining games. This will enable them to get to four points. If any one of the other teams in Group B are also tied on 4 points with them, then Afghanistan need to ensure that they finish with a higher net run rate than that side.

However, if Afghanistan lose any one of their two games, then they will be virtually knocked out of the competition.

South Africa put on a huge total of 315/6 on the board in the first innings after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Ryan Rickelton made a memorable debut in an ICC event and slammed a century. He became only the second South African after Gary Kirsten to hit a century on his ICC event debut. Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen slammed crucial half-centuries in the big total.

Afghanistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals during the run chase. It was only Rahmat Shah who waged a lone battle as he slammed 90 runs. However, the Afghans were bundled out for 208. Kagiso Rabad was the star with the ball as he picked up three wickets. Wian Mulder and Lungi Ngidi chipped in with two wickets each.

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