KINGSTOWN: In a thrilling T20 World Cup match, Afghanistan pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Australia by 21 runs in St Vincent. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran set the stage with a brilliant opening partnership of 118 runs, leading Afghanistan to their first-ever victory over the reigning champions.
Afghanistan, batting first after Australia opted to bowl, posted a competitive total of 148-6 in their allotted 20 overs. Gurbaz was the standout performer with a fluent 60, supported well by Zadran who contributed 51. The duo’s partnership laid a solid foundation despite early pressure from the Australian bowlers.
Australia’s chase got off to a disastrous start with Naveen-ul-Haq dismissing Travis Head for a duck in the first over. The Afghan bowlers maintained relentless pressure, further denting Australia’s hopes by claiming crucial wickets at regular intervals. Mitchell Marsh (12), David Warner (3), and Marcus Stoinis (5) fell cheaply, leaving Australia reeling at 32-3 within the powerplay.
Despite a valiant effort from Glenn Maxwell, who fought hard with a gritty 59 off 41 balls, Australia struggled to keep up with the required run rate. Maxwell’s dismissal, caught brilliantly by Noor Ahmad off Gulbadin Naib’s bowling, effectively sealed Afghanistan’s victory.
Gulbadin Naib was the pick of the Afghan bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 4-20, while Naveen-ul-Haq supported him well with 3-20. Pat Cummins, in a remarkable feat, claimed his second hat-trick of the tournament but couldn’t prevent Australia from falling short.
With this win, Afghanistan not only kept their hopes alive in the T20 World Cup but also added a new chapter to their cricketing history by defeating one of the tournament favorites. The result leaves Group 1 finely poised, with India leading on four points, followed by Afghanistan and Australia on two points each, and Bangladesh at the bottom.
Next, India will face Australia in a crucial encounter in St Lucia, while Afghanistan will take on Bangladesh in their final Super Eight match in St Vincent. The victory underscores Afghanistan’s growing prowess in international cricket and sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the group stage of the tournament.
