Afghanistan crashed out of the Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinals race after slumping to a five-wicket loss in opposition to South Africa on Friday. Afghanistan wanted an enormous win to remain within the race however the loss signifies that Pakistan and New Zealand are the 2 left with an opportunity of reaching the semifinals. New Zealand have the benefit with 10 factors from 9 matches and the Kiwis have the most effective Net Run Rate (NRR) compared to Pakistan and Afghanistan. With 8 factors from 8 matches, Pakistan must win their final league match by 287 runs in the event that they bat first. If they chase, Pakistan must win with at the very least 284 balls — greater than 47 overs — to spare.

An unbeaten half-century from Rassie van der Dussen and a 64-run partnership for the opening wicket between Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma helped South Africa defeat Afghanistan.

Chasing 245 for victory, the Proteas, who’ve already certified for the semifinals, accomplished the duty in 47.3 overs. They now have 14 factors and proceed to occupy the second spot behind India, who’re on 16 factors.

De Kock (41) and Bavuma (23) gave the Proteas the early push earlier than Van der Dussen scored an unbeaten 76 off 95 balls to information the group residence.

Earlier, Azmatullah Omarzai hit a gritty unbeaten 97 as Afghanistan posted a difficult 244 all out in 50 overs.

The South African bowlers dominated the proceedings with Gerald Coetzee grabbing 4 wickets for 44 runs. Lungi Ngidi (2/69) and spinner Keshav Maharaj (2/25) took two wickets every.

The opening pair of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran had earlier given Afghanistan an honest begin with a 41-run partnership.

(With PTI inputs)