Afghanistan stormed into the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan stormed into the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 after beating Bangladesh by 8 runs (DLS) in their Super 8 clash on Tuesday, June 25 at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

Afghanistan set a target of 116 runs in their 20 overs, scoring 115/5. Key performances included Rahmanullah Gurbaz scoring 43 runs off 55 balls and Rashid Khan contributing 19 not out off 10 balls. Bangladesh bowler Rishad Hossain was notable with 3 wickets for 26 runs.

In response, Bangladesh struggled to reach the target, getting all out for 105 in 17.5 overs. Litton Das was the standout performer for Bangladesh with an unbeaten 54 off 49 balls. Naveen-ul-Haq was the key bowler for Afghanistan, taking 4 wickets for 26 runs. Rashid Khan also made significant contributions with 4 wickets for 23 runs. The match was affected by rain, which revised the target to 114 runs from 19 overs.

Ultimately, Afghanistan won the match, and Naveen-ul-Haq was awarded the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance.

Afghanistan Triumphs Over Bangladesh in Rain-Affected Thriller

In a gripping encounter at the Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent, Afghanistan emerged victorious over Bangladesh in a rain-affected T20 World Cup clash. The match, marked by strategic plays and stellar performances, showcased the tenacity and skill of both teams.

Afghanistan’s Innings

Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Afghanistan put up a challenging total of 115/5 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored a steady 43 runs off 55 balls, including three boundaries and a six. Despite a slow start, Gurbaz’s resilience helped Afghanistan lay a foundation.

Ibrahim Zadran contributed 18 runs off 29 balls, while Rashid Khan added a quickfire 19 not out off just 10 balls, including three sixes, to boost the team’s total towards the end. Bangladesh’s bowlers, particularly Rishad Hossain, who took 3 wickets for 26 runs, kept the scoring rate in check. Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman also chipped in with crucial wickets, maintaining pressure on the Afghan batsmen.

Bangladesh’s Response

Chasing a revised target of 114 runs from 19 overs due to rain interruptions, Bangladesh’s innings faltered from the start. Litton Das stood as the lone warrior, scoring an unbeaten 54 runs off 49 balls, including five fours and a six. His effort, however, was not enough to steer Bangladesh to victory.

Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals, with Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, and Shakib Al Hasan falling cheaply. Naveen-ul-Haq’s exceptional bowling spell saw him take 4 wickets for 26 runs, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup. Rashid Khan, the Afghan captain, also delivered a brilliant performance, claiming 4 wickets for 23 runs, ensuring that Bangladesh could not build any significant partnerships.

Rain and Drama

The match witnessed several rain interruptions, causing delays and adjustments to the target. Despite these challenges, the Afghan bowlers kept their composure and executed their plans effectively. Bangladesh, needing 114 runs in 19 overs, fell short by 9 runs, being bowled out for 105 in 17.5 overs.

Key Performances

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Scored 43 runs off 55 balls, providing a solid start for Afghanistan.
• Rashid Khan: Not only contributed with the bat, scoring 19 not out off 10 balls, but also excelled with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 23 runs.
• Naveen-ul-Haq: His 4 wickets for 26 runs were crucial in breaking the back of Bangladesh’s batting order.
• Litton Das: Despite being on the losing side, his unbeaten 54 runs off 49 balls was a commendable effort.

Afghanistan Victory

Afghanistan’s victory over Bangladesh in this rain-affected match is a testament to their growing prowess in international cricket. The team’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions and execute their game plan under pressure was evident throughout the match. Naveen-ul-Haq, with his match-winning bowling performance, deservedly earned the Player of the Match award.

This win boosts Afghanistan’s confidence as they progress further in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, showcasing their potential to challenge top-tier teams in the tournament.