Cricket is a game of ambition and aspirations, any team that wills to fight against all odds will find success at some occasion. Afghanistan boasts a similar history in game of cricket, coming from a war torn background, Afghanistan has found itself in annals of cricket history with incredible win over Bangladesh that sent them to the semifinals of T20 World Cup 2024.
It was an exhilarating showdown that will be remembered for its sheer drama and intensity, Afghanistan clinched a spot in the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, marking a historic moment for the team.
The match against Bangladesh, held in St Vincent, was a nail-biter from start to finish, ultimately ending Australia’s hopes and securing Afghanistan’s place among the tournament’s top four teams alongside India, England, and South Africa.
The stage was set with Afghanistan needing a win to progress. Rashid Khan, the Afghan captain, won the toss and elected to bat. The opening over saw immediate drama with Rahmanullah Gurbaz narrowly escaping a run-out. This early scare set the tone for a tense and competitive game.
Afghanistan’s innings began cautiously, with Bangladesh’s bowlers restricting the run flow. Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran focused on preserving their wickets, steering the team to 27/0 at the end of the Powerplay. Despite the slow start, the duo made history by becoming the first pair to notch four 50-run partnerships in a T20 World Cup.
However, the Bangladeshi bowlers kept a tight grip, allowing only 58 runs by the mid-innings break. The breakthrough for Bangladesh came soon after, with Zadran dismissed for 18. Pressure mounted as Afghanistan struggled to accelerate, and key wickets fell, including that of Gurbaz, who scored a vital 43 off 55 balls.
Rashid Khan provided a late flourish, helping Afghanistan reach a total of 115/5 in 20 overs just as rain interrupted the match. The weather delay added to the tension, with Australia and both competing teams anxiously awaiting the resumption.
When play resumed, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq struck early, reducing Bangladesh to 46/3 by the end of the Powerplay. Rashid Khan’s introduction into the attack shifted momentum back to Afghanistan as he took crucial wickets, maintaining pressure on Bangladesh.
Despite valiant efforts from Litton Das and Mahmudullah, Bangladesh’s chase was hampered by regular wickets and further rain interruptions. Khan’s exceptional bowling, resulting in figures of 23/4, played a pivotal role in keeping Afghanistan in the contest.
As the game neared its conclusion, Bangladesh needed 20 runs from the last four overs with just one wicket in hand. Naveen-ul-Haq delivered the final blow, taking the last wicket and sparking wild celebrations among the Afghan players and fans.
This thrilling victory not only secured Afghanistan’s spot in the semi-finals but also underscored the team’s resilience and determination. For Bangladesh and Australia, it was a heart-breaking end to their World Cup campaigns, but for Afghanistan, it was a historic achievement, heralding their rise in international cricket.
