KABUL: The Afghanistan Under-19 national cricket team has commenced its World Cup campaign successfully, defeating South Africa in its opening match. In this game, Afghanistan batted first and set a target of 267 runs for South Africa in the allotted 50 overs. For Afghanistan, Faisal Khan Shinwari scored 81 runs, Khalid Ahmadzai contributed 74 runs, and Azir Khan made 51 not out. South Africa was unable to reach the target, managing only 238 runs, resulting in a 28-run victory for Afghanistan. Khater Stanikzai and Abdul Aziz Khan each took two wickets, while Nasratullah Nooristani and Hafiz Zadran claimed one wicket each. Azirullah Niyazi was named the player of the match. The Afghan team will play their next match against the West Indies next Sunday.
