admin Afghanistan’s cricket team achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever World Cup semi-final spot. In a rain-affected match, Afghanistan triumphed over Bangladesh by eight runs using the Duckworth-Lewis method. The victory also knocked Australia out of the T20 World Cup.
Afghanistan restricted Bangladesh to a Duckworth-Lewis-Stern revised target of 114 in 19 overs. Bangladesh, however, fell short, being bowled out for 105. Captain Rashid Khan’s remarkable bowling, taking 4-23, and Naveen-ul-Haq’s 4-26, were instrumental in the victory.
Earlier, Afghanistan managed a modest 115-5 in their innings, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz top-scoring. Despite scoring 43, he used up 55 deliveries. Rashid Khan then blasted three sixes in his quick 19 off 10 balls, ensuring a competitive total.
In the final over, Rashid’s determination was evident as he hurled his bat at Karim Janat in frustration for not taking a second run. The Afghanistan team’s hopes seemed bleak after collapsing from 84-1 to 93-5 in just 11 balls.
Litton Das provided some resistance for Bangladesh, scoring an unbeaten 54 from 49 balls. However, regular wickets at the other end hindered their chase. Rashid Khan’s double strike in the 11th over left Bangladesh struggling at 80-7. Naveen-ul-Haq then sealed the victory with consecutive wickets in the penultimate over, sparking tearful celebrations.
Earlier in the day, India had beaten Australia by 24 runs, complicating Australia’s chances of advancing. This result left the qualification hopes of the 2021 champions hanging by a thread. The Afghanistan team capitalized on this, securing their place in the semi-finals.
Afghanistan will face South Africa in the first semi-final in Trinidad on Wednesday evening. This marks a significant achievement for Afghan cricket, showcasing their growth and potential on the global stage.
Meanwhile, India will take on England in the second semi-final. The match between India and Australia earlier in St Lucia set the stage for these exciting semi-finals. Afghanistan’s victory not only marked a milestone for them but also added another thrilling chapter to the T20 World Cup narrative.
Afghanistan’s journey to the semi-finals has been a testament to their resilience and determination. The historic win against Bangladesh will be remembered as a defining moment for Afghan cricket. Now, all eyes are on their upcoming clash with South Africa, promising more exciting cricket action.
Magazine 
