Afghanistan Secure Landmark Victory Over Cricketing Giants
In a momentous turn of events at the T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan clinched their first-ever win over Australia across all formats, defending a total of 148 to bowl out the mighty Aussies for just 127. This victory not only rewrote history books but also revived Afghanistan’s chances of making the semi-finals, while leaving both India and Australia anxiously awaiting qualification.
Gurbaz and Ibrahim’s Century Stand Sets the Foundation
The Afghan innings was built on a rock-solid partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. The pair notched up their third 100+ opening stand in the tournament, becoming the first ever duo to achieve this feat in a single T20I series. Gurbaz scored a fluent 60, while Zadran contributed a valuable 51. Their efforts helped Afghanistan post a competitive 148/6 on a challenging pitch offering sharp turn and variable bounce.
Cummins Takes Second Consecutive Hat-Trick
Australia’s Pat Cummins made headlines with a stunning hat-trick—his second in as many games—removing Rashid Khan, Karim Janat, and Gulbadin Naib in a fierce display of death bowling. He now joins an elite group of bowlers with multiple T20 World Cup hat-tricks, yet his heroics weren’t enough to save Australia from a shocking defeat.
Naib’s Magical Spell Turns the Game
Afghanistan’s hero with the ball was all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, who delivered a game-changing spell, finishing with figures of 4 for 20. Brought in as the eighth bowler, Naib removed the dangerous Marcus Stoinis and Tim David in quick succession before returning to dismiss the in-form Glenn Maxwell for 59. His spell broke the backbone of Australia’s middle order and turned the match in Afghanistan’s favor.
Early Strikes by Naveen and Nabi Set the Tone
The tone for Afghanistan’s defense was set early by pacer Naveen-ul-Haq, who dismissed Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh in quick time. Mohammad Nabi added to the pressure by removing David Warner with his very first delivery, continuing his golden arm tradition in ICC events. These early breakthroughs left Australia reeling at 16 for 2 and handed the momentum to the Afghan side.
Maxwell Threat Averted Just in Time
Australia’s hopes rested on Glenn Maxwell, who threatened to replicate his heroics from their last meeting with Afghanistan. He struck a composed 59 off 41 balls but eventually fell to a brilliant diving catch from Noor Ahmad off Gulbadin’s bowling. Once Maxwell departed, Australia’s tail couldn’t withstand Afghanistan’s charged-up attack.
Reactions and Aftermath
The Afghan camp erupted in celebration, with captain Rashid Khan praising his side’s composure and execution. Gulbadin Naib, emotional post-match, dedicated the victory to Afghan fans around the world. The result has thrown Group 1 of the Super Eight wide open, with India, Australia, and Afghanistan all still in contention for the semi-finals.
Looking Ahead
Afghanistan’s final Super Eight match will now be a high-stakes encounter. A win could secure their semi-final berth depending on other results. For Australia, the loss adds immense pressure ahead of their clash with India. One more slip-up, and the 2021 champions could be watching the semis from home.
Category: T20 World Cup 2024, Cricket News
Tags: Afghanistan vs Australia, T20 World Cup 2024, Gulbadin Naib, Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cummins, Afghanistan cricket team, Australia cricket team, Super Eight stage, Naveen-ul-Haq, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Kingstown pitch, ICC T20 World Cup
