South Africa’s bowlers delivered in unison which was then followed by a clinical batting display as they pulled off a consolation win over Afghanistan in the third and final ODI in Sharjah. Having lost the series, South Africa made a good start with the ball, getting two wickets inside the opening 10 overs to take early control.

Despite those two losses, Rahmanullah Gurbaz appeared in good touch, fetching regular boundaries. Fresh from a century that helped Afghanistan seal a historic series win, Gurbaz was in his elements again, striking sixes at will. However, the third wicket triggered a collapse that saw South Africa run through the middle order.

While Gurbaz was going strong at one end, needless runouts hurt Afghanistan. Quite spectacularly, as many as eight batters were dismissed for single-digit scores. Gurbaz, who hammered four sixes and looked good for another century, found the fielder at cover point to fall 11 short. Afghanistan eventually ended up making only 169, with 16 overs left in the innings.

Chasing a consolation win, South Africa were sedate in their approach as the top three got off to starts. None of them managed to kick on though as they gave their side a mini scare at 80/3. But Markram and Tristan Stubbs ensured there was no cause for concern. Rashid Khan’s absence also played into their hands as the duo batted through the middle phase without any real worry.

In the process, Markram cleared the ropes thrice, including two in an over from Mohammad Nabi. Eventually, he helped himself to a well-compiled half-century with Stubbs playing second fiddle at the other end. The two batters were involved in an unbeaten 90-run stand that laid the finishing touches.

Brief scores: Afghanistan 169 in 34 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 89; Andile Phehlukwayo 2/17, Lungi Ngidi 2/22) lost to South Africa 170/3 in 33 overs (Aiden Markram 69*) by 7 wickets