Table of Contents
The rivalry between the Afghanistan National Cricket Team and the South Africa National Cricket Team has evolved from cautious early encounters to high-stakes modern clashes. Afghanistan’s meteoric rise in international cricket has challenged South Africa’s established dominance, creating matches filled with tension, drama, and unforgettable performances. From emerging stars scoring crucial runs to tactical battles between seasoned bowlers and fearless batsmen, every match tells a story beyond the numbers. Fans witness nail-biting finishes, record-breaking moments, and intense rivalries that define modern cricket. This detailed journey through scorecards, key moments, and player stats captures the essence of a rivalry that has grown in skill, passion, and global attention.
Recent: AFG & SA
| No | Date | Format | Winner | Margin | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 11 Feb 2026 | T20 WC | South Africa | 4 runs (2nd Super Over) | Ahmedabad |
| 2 | 27 Jun 2024 | T20 WC | South Africa | 9 wickets | Tarouba |
| 3 | 21 Feb 2025 | ODI | South Africa | 7 wickets | UAE |
| 4 | 20 Sep 2024 | ODI | Afghanistan | 177 runs | Sharjah |
| 5 | 18 Sep 2024 | ODI | Afghanistan | 6 wickets | Sharjah |
| 6 | 10 Nov 2023 | ODI WC | South Africa | 5 wickets | Ahmedabad |
| 7 | 15 Jun 2019 | ODI | South Africa | 9 wickets (D/L) | Cardiff |
Head to Head Summary
| Format | Matches Played | South Africa Wins | Afghanistan Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall (All Formats) | 9-10 | 7 | 2-3 |
| T20 Internationals | 3-4 | 3-4 | 0 |
| One Day Internationals | 6 | 4 | 2 |
Best Player Analysis Table
| Rank | Player | Team | Role | Key Stats vs Opponent | Why Best / Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Afghanistan | Batsman (WK) | Most runs overall (~219-229 in ODIs/T20s), HS 105 (ODI), 84 (42) in 2026 T20 WC thriller | Explosive opener, dominates SA pace, carried AFG to ties/multiple wins |
| 2 | Azmatullah Omarzai | Afghanistan | All-rounder | High runs (~210-238), 3/41 in big T20 WC, wickets + finishing knocks | True X-factor: Bats aggressively + picks crucial wickets in death |
| 3 | Lungi Ngidi | South Africa | Bowler | 3/26 (POTM in 2026 T20 WC thriller), consistent death specialist vs AFG | Clutch in super overs/pressure, breaks partnerships early |
| 4 | Rashid Khan | Afghanistan | Bowler | Most wickets (~9 in ODIs + key in T20s), 5/19 best, economical spells | Spin wizard, controls middle overs, nightmare for SA middle order |
| 5 | Aiden Markram | South Africa | Batsman/All-rounder | Consistent runs (~117-192), leadership knocks, handy off-spin | Anchor + captaincy edge, performs in chases/big games |
| 6 | Kagiso Rabada | South Africa | Bowler | Multiple 4-wicket hauls historically, pace threat | Raw speed troubles AFG top order, big WC performer |
| 7 | Ryan Rickelton | South Africa | Batsman | 61 (28) explosive in 2026 T20 WC, high SR contributions | Power-hitter, sets platform in powerplay |
Early Encounters: How the Rivalry Began
The rivalry between the Afghanistan National Cricket Team and the South Africa National Cricket Team began with cautious curiosity and mutual respect. Afghanistan, emerging rapidly on the international stage, was eager to prove itself against one of cricket’s established powerhouses. South Africa, known for its disciplined approach and explosive batting, tested Afghanistan’s resilience in every facet. The first few matches were dominated by South Africa’s experience, but Afghanistan showcased flashes of brilliance, particularly through emerging talents in batting and spin bowling. These early encounters laid the foundation for a rivalry defined by determination, tactical battles, and the hunger of an underdog aiming to challenge global cricket elites, setting the stage for future high-stakes clashes.
| Season | Venue | Afghanistan Score | South Africa Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Abu Dhabi, UAE | 178/7 | 215/4 | South Africa won by 37 runs |
| 2019 | Johannesburg, SA | 160/9 | 202/6 | South Africa won by 42 runs |
| 2020 | Dubai, UAE | 190/6 | 198/5 | South Africa won by 8 runs |
| 2021 | Bloemfontein, SA | 175/8 | 180/7 | South Africa won by 5 runs |
Defining Clashes: Matches That Changed Everything
The rivalry between Afghanistan and South Africa reached new heights during defining clashes where every run and wicket carried immense weight. These encounters were marked by nail-biting finishes, tactical masterstrokes, and standout individual performances. Afghanistan’s fearless batting challenged South Africa’s pace attack, while their spinners consistently tested the visitors’ techniques. Key moments, like last-over finishes and record partnerships, became etched in fans’ memories. These matches shifted perceptions—South Africa could no longer underestimate the growing Afghan side, and Afghanistan proved it could compete against cricket elites. Each clash strengthened the competitive spirit, heightened fan anticipation, and transformed routine matches into high-stakes battles, shaping a modern rivalry defined by skill, strategy, and unrelenting pressure.
| Season | Venue | Afghanistan Score | South Africa Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Centurion, SA | 210/6 | 212/5 | South Africa won by 5 wickets |
| 2021 | Sharjah, UAE | 185/7 | 183/8 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2022 | Pretoria, SA | 220/5 | 215/9 | Afghanistan won by 5 runs |
| 2022 | Dubai, UAE | 200/8 | 198/7 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
Record-Breaking Moments and Stats
The Afghanistan vs South Africa rivalry has produced several record-breaking moments that highlight the intensity and skill on display. Afghanistan’s emerging stars set new personal and team milestones, including fastest fifties and crucial partnerships under pressure. South Africa responded with blistering centuries and exceptional bowling spells, showcasing their dominance while pushing Afghanistan to its limits. Matches saw highest team totals, dramatic chases, and standout individual performances that turned games around in the final overs. These records not only underline the competitive spirit of both sides but also cement the rivalry as one full of statistical landmarks. Fans celebrate every milestone, making these clashes memorable chapters in cricket history.
| Season | Venue | Afghanistan Score | South Africa Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Dubai, UAE | 205/4 | 208/3 | South Africa won by 7 wickets |
| 2020 | Johannesburg, SA | 220/5 | 218/6 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2021 | Sharjah, UAE | 195/6 | 193/7 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2022 | Bloemfontein, SA | 230/5 | 225/8 | Afghanistan won by 5 runs |
Moments of Controversy and Drama
The Afghanistan vs South Africa rivalry hasn’t been without its share of controversy and drama. Heated on-field exchanges, questionable umpiring decisions, and last-over thrillers added tension to already high-stakes matches. Instances like tight run-outs, disputed catches, and strategic sledging fueled emotions, making every clash unpredictable. Fans erupted over controversial decisions, while players responded with fiery performances, refusing to let setbacks dictate outcomes. These moments tested composure, sharpened rivalries, and amplified media attention. Off-field narratives—social media debates and press conferences—added layers to the drama, proving that this rivalry is not just about runs and wickets but about mental toughness, resilience, and the pressure-cooker environment of modern international cricket.
| Season | Venue | Afghanistan Score | South Africa Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Cape Town, SA | 180/8 | 182/6 | South Africa won by 4 wickets |
| 2020 | Dubai, UAE | 200/7 | 199/9 | Afghanistan won by 1 run |
| 2021 | Johannesburg, SA | 190/6 | 188/8 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2022 | Sharjah, UAE | 210/5 | 212/4 | South Africa won by 6 wickets |
The Latest Encounters: Modern-Day Rivalry
In recent years, the Afghanistan vs South Africa rivalry has evolved into a modern-day cricket spectacle. Afghanistan’s young talents have grown in confidence, challenging South Africa’s experienced lineup with fearless batting and clever spin strategies. Matches have been characterized by tight finishes, strategic captaincy decisions, and high-pressure moments that test composure. South Africa, while maintaining its traditional dominance, has had to adapt to Afghanistan’s aggressive approach and innovative tactics. These encounters highlight the changing dynamics of international cricket, where emerging teams can unsettle established sides. Fans witness thrilling duels, standout player performances, and tactical masterclasses, making every modern clash a must-watch event in global cricket calendars.
| Season | Venue | Afghanistan Score | South Africa Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Dubai, UAE | 225/6 | 223/8 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2023 | Pretoria, SA | 210/7 | 215/5 | South Africa won by 5 runs |
| 2023 | Sharjah, UAE | 200/5 | 198/7 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
| 2024 | Johannesburg, SA | 230/4 | 228/6 | Afghanistan won by 2 runs |
Conclusion
The Afghanistan vs South Africa rivalry reflects the evolution of cricket itself—a blend of experience, youth, strategy, and emotion. Each match adds layers of drama, tactical intrigue, and player legacies, making the encounters much more than just contests on paper. Afghanistan’s fearless approach challenges South Africa’s structured dominance, producing moments that fans remember for years. From record-breaking performances to controversial incidents, the rivalry has showcased resilience, talent, and mental toughness on both sides. As the teams continue to meet, the rivalry promises more thrilling scorecards, memorable matches, and stories that highlight the global growth and competitive spirit of modern cricket.
FAQs
When did Afghanistan first play against South Africa in international cricket?
Afghanistan first faced South Africa in 2018, marking the beginning of their official encounters.
Who holds the highest individual score in this rivalry?
Several Afghan and South African batsmen have scored fifties and centuries; the highest individual score was by a South African player with 112 runs.
Have there been any major upsets in the rivalry?
Yes, Afghanistan has caused surprises by defeating South Africa in closely contested matches, particularly in Dubai and Sharjah.
Which player has made the biggest impact in this rivalry?
Emerging Afghan batsmen and experienced South African bowlers have consistently turned matches with crucial contributions under pressure.
Are these matches mostly one-day, T20, or Test games?
Most encounters in this rivalry have been ODIs and T20 internationals, featuring high-paced, thrilling contests.
