SA beat spirited Afghans to remain in hunt

MUMBAI: South Africa brought their ICC World T20 campaign back on track after the stunning loss to England two days ago when they subdued a fighting Afghanistan by 37 runs at the Wankhede Stadium here on Sunday. The Proteas, who posted a record-high score of 229 for 4 that was overhauled by England in a thrilling fashion for the loss of eight wickets, became the first team in World T0 history to post a second 200- plus score in the same edition when they rattled up 209 for five wickets against the minnows. South Africa then bowled out Afghanistan for 172 in 20 overs to emerge victorious after the minnows were given an electric start by opener Mohammad Shahzad with a 19-ball 44, which was studded with five sixes and three fours. It was South Africa’s first win in two games in the Super 10 Group 1 round robin league after the first game loss to England. Lanky pacer Chris Morris led the South African bowling charge by grabbing 4 for 27 while leggie Imran Tahir also impressed with 2 for 24. They have two games to play – against England (March 23 at Delhi) and West Indies (March 27 at Nagpur). (PTI)