[Watch] Nabi Suspects DRS Foul Play With Animated Reaction After Bavuma's Lucky Escape

Temba Bavuma survives (Source:screengrab)

South Africa clashed with Afghanistan in the third match of the Champions Trophy 2025 on Friday, February 21. After winning the toss, the Proteas elected to bat first, a decision that seemed to pay off as they added quickly runs on the board despite an early wicket. 

Skipper Temba Bavuma and Ryan Rickelton built a solid 129-run partnership, keeping the Afghan bowlers at bay. However, a moment of high drama unfolded in the 29th over when veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi nearly dismissed Bavuma, only for the South African captain to be saved by DRS. 

Temba Bavuma Survives Close DRS Call

Nabi, delivering a tossed-up good-length ball on the middle and leg stump, induced a sweeping attempt from Bavuma. The ball struck Bavuma’s front knee-roll, prompting an enthusiastic appeal from Nabi and the Afghan fielders, including wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The on-field umpire, however, gave out.

Bavuma quickly opted for a review, the TV umpire analysed multiple angles. The UltraEdge confirmed no contact with the bat. While the ball pitched in line and impact was in line, it was ultimately projected to miss the leg stump. 

The decision left Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Rashid Khan visibly stunned. Nabi looked especially frustrated, shaking his head in disbelief, while Gurbaz looked shocked. The Afghan players could not comprehend the turn the ball had taken, seemingly beating Bavuma. 

Nabi's Redemption On Next Ball 

Even as Bavuma breathed a sigh of relief, his stay at the crease was short-lived. On the very next delivery, Nabi struck gold. The off-spinner bowled a short-of-a-length ball outside off. Bavuma, perhaps still processing the previous ball’s escape, attempted to clear the deep mid-wicket boundary but mistimed the shot. The ball soared high into the air, and Sediqullah Atal, stationed in the deep, ran forward to complete a comfortable catch. 

At the time of writing this article, South Africa are at 201/3 with Ryan Rickelton completed his century. 

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