The 2024 T20 World Cup just witnessed a massive upset! In a nail-biting Super Eight encounter, Afghanistan defeated the mighty Australians by 21 runs, registering their first-ever win against them in the shortest format of the game.
Afghan Openers Lay the Foundation
Afghanistan’s batting got off to a flying start thanks to a brilliant opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. Both batsmen struck fifties (60 and 51 respectively) and provided a solid platform for the middle order. While wickets fell at regular intervals after that, Afghanistan managed to post a competitive total of 148 runs on the board.
Naib Steals the Show with the Ball
Australia, with a modest target in sight, appeared to be in control initially.. However, the tide turned dramatically with the introduction of Afghanistan’s star all-rounder, Gulbadin Naib. Naib produced a sensational spell of bowling, picking up a career-best 4 wickets for just 20 runs. Naveen-ul-Haq chipped in with three crucial wickets as well, leaving the Australian batting lineup in tatters.
Australia Crumble Under Pressure
Australia’s chase was derailed by the loss of early wickets. They never quite recovered from the initial setbacks and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. The spin duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, though wicketless, applied a lot of pressure with their tight bowling, restricting the scoring rate. Eventually, Afghanistan bundled out Australia for a mere 127 runs, achieving a historic victory.
Afghanistan Keep Semi-Final Hopes Alive
This win has thrown the Super Eight stage wide open and keeps Afghanistan’s dream of reaching the semi-finals very much alive. For Australia, this loss serves as a wake-up call, reminding them that no team can be taken lightly in this competitive tournament.
Match Highlights:
- Players of the Match: Gulbadin Naib (Afghanistan) for his match-winning bowling performance (4/20)
- Turning Point: Naib’s spell with the new ball that restricted Australia’s scoring and exposed their middle order
- Memorable Moments: Gurbaz and Zadran’s opening partnership for Afghanistan, Naib’s diving catch to dismiss Zampa
This thrilling encounter has certainly been one of the highlights of the T20 World Cup so far. It will be interesting to see how both teams respond to this result in their upcoming matches.
