In a historic moment, Afghanistan clinched a thrilling eight-run victory over Bangladesh, securing their place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals for the first time. The run-curtailed match saw Afghanistan set a revised target of 114 for Bangladesh, who ultimately fell short.
A country filled with hardships and struggles, without even a home stadium, defeats the mighty Aussies, trumps Bangladesh, and for the first time ever, 🇦🇫 has paved their way into the semi-finals of the #T20WorldCup! 👌🏻… pic.twitter.com/ngJPOgxyh9
Afghanistan’s innings ended at 115/5 in 20 overs, powered by a late cameo from Rashid Khan. The team struggled initially, scoring only 27 runs during the powerplay. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with a solid 43 off 55 balls, provided some stability at the top. Despite the sluggish start, Rashid’s six off the final ball added crucial runs to their total.
Bangladesh’s chase began disastrously as Fazalhaq Farooqi dismissed Tanzid Hasan early. Naveen-ul-Haq then delivered a game-changing over, taking two key wickets, including Najmul Shanto and Shakib Al Hasan, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 31/3 in 3.2 overs. The rain interrupted the play twice, adding to the drama.
Rashid Khan Secure Victory against Bangladesh
After the second rain break, Rashid Khan’s four-wicket haul decimated Bangladesh’s middle order. Litton Das fought a lone battle, scoring an unbeaten 54, but lacked support from the other end. His efforts were in vain as Bangladesh failed to chase down the revised target, ending at 105/7.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Naveen-ul-Haq and Rashid Khan, proved too strong for Bangladesh. Naveen’s double strike after the rain break and Rashid’s crucial wickets were pivotal in Afghanistan’s victory. This win secured Afghanistan’s semi-final berth and knocked out both Bangladesh and Australia from the tournament.
After their historic win over Australia, Afghanistan entered the match with confidence, where Rashid Khan’s leadership and the team’s spirited performance saw them beat the Aussies for the first time in international cricket. The win against Australia had already boosted their chances, and the victory over Bangladesh confirmed their semi-final spot.
Australia’s hopes of advancing were pinned on Bangladesh defeating Afghanistan, but the Afghan side proved too strong. Mitchell Marsh, Australia’s captain, expressed disappointment after their loss to India but acknowledged India’s superiority. His plea, “Come on, Bangladesh!” went unanswered as Afghanistan sealed their fate.
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