Rashid Khan sets unique record with ODI fifer on birthday
What's the story
Rashid Khan, the star cricketer from Afghanistan, has made history by becoming the first player to claim an ODI five-wicket haul on his birthday. This remarkable feat was achieved during Afghanistan's second ODI against South Africa in Sharjah. The leg-spinner, who is 26 now, finished with figures of 5/19 in nine overs. Khan's performance played a crucial role in securing a 177-run victory for his team.
Record-breaking performance
Khan surpasses Philander's ODI record
With his five-wicket haul, Khan surpassed the previous record held by South African cricketer Vernon Philander for the best ODI figures on a birthday. Philander had taken four wickets for 12 runs against Ireland in Belfast in 2007. The new record set by Khan stands at five wickets for 19 runs against South Africa in Sharjah, 2024.
Post-match reflections
Khan's reaction to his historic achievement
Following the match, Khan expressed his joy at contributing to his team's victory despite nursing a hamstring injury. "Fifer after a long time and really happy. Got a hamstring but really really happy to make some contribution for my side and win the game for them," he said. He also praised the younger players on his team, stating that their willingness to learn is what makes cricket beautiful.
SA's failure
South Africa's struggle and series loss
Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 105 and Azmatullah Omarzai's 86* helped Afghanistan cross the 300-run mark and finish at 311/4 batting first. SA's chase was disrupted by Omarzai, who ended the opening partnership of 73 runs between Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi. Following this, Khan took center stage with Nangeyalia Kharote to claim the remaining nine wickets for just 61 more runs. While Khan claimed a fifer, Kharote claimed 4/26.
Tally
Most wickets for Afghanistan
As per ESPNcricinfo, Khan's tally of 190 ODI scalps from 105 games is the most for an Afghanistan bowler. Khan, who has an economy of 4.21 in ODIs, boasts six four-wicket hauls and five fifers in the format. His ODI bowling average of 19.98 is the best among full-member team spinners with at least 50 wickets in the format.
Post-match analysis
Captains reflect on match outcome
Afghanistan's captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, congratulated his nation on the victory and praised the performances of his team members. He specifically highlighted the contributions made by spinners in securing their win. South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, acknowledged that his team's performance was not up to par and emphasized the need for improvement in all three departments of their game.