The Proteas had a satisfying run out in the scorching heat at Tolerance Oval, Abu Dhabi, completing a comprehensive victory in their warm-up game against Afghanistan.
They got the necessary game time and ball-to-bat feeling for returning captain Temba Bavuma (31 off 39). They had what has become a regulation outing from Aiden Markram (48 off 35 balls), a tidy 21 off 17 from Rassie van der Dussen and a 10-ball 20 for David Miller who needed to free his arms after lack of game time in the IPL.
Bavuma will however hope he can up his scoring rate as he gains momentum leading to the opening game against Australia on Saturday (12pm SAST).
On a wicket that was slow and tricky to practice range hitting, the Proteas posted a competitive 145/5.
The Proteas bowlers were excellent, keeping their momentum in check with their in form spin attack and pace bowlers Lungi Ngidi and our cover star Dwaine Pretorius adding the necessary spice to stifle the Afghan attack.
Bjorn Fortuin was exquisite from the get-go, striking on the third ball of the innings, and so was Ngidi, finding a wicket with his second ball, which set the tone for the Proteas.
All of the bowlers picked up wickets, but it was Tabraiz Shamsi who finished with the best figures of 3-18 in his four overs.
South Africa won by 41 runs.
