Afghanistan registered their first-ever semifinal berth in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 after a gripping encounter against Bangladesh. Batting first, Afghanistan set a modest target of 115 runs, relying on their bowlers to defend it.
Captain Rashid Khan led from the front with a superb bowling performance, taking four crucial wickets to dismantle Bangladesh’s batting lineup. His strategic bowling changes and variations kept the opposition batter in check throughout the innings.
Naveen-ul-Haq’s exceptional bowling
As Bangladesh approached the target, the match witnessed a tense climax. With Bangladesh marginally ahead of the DLS par score in the 19th over, Afghanistan needed breakthroughs. Naveen-ul-Haq, the standout performer of the day, delivered a decisive blow by rattling the stumps of Taskin Ahmed as the bowl came back to the stumps from the inside edge of Taskin’s bat.
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Mustafizur Rahman’s dismissal and winning moment
With nine runs required off the last eight balls, Mustafizur Rahman faced the daunting task of guiding Bangladesh to victory. However, Naveen struck again with a full and straight delivery that struck Rahman on the front pad. The umpire didn’t hesitate to give it out, as there was no contact with the bat, leading to wild celebrations in the Afghanistan camp.
Naveen’s exceptional spell of 4/26 in 3.5 overs earned him the Player of the Match award. His precise bowling under pressure ensured Afghanistan’s triumph and secured their place in the semifinals.
Here’s the video:
Semifinal clash against South Africa
Having finished second in Group 1 behind unbeaten India, Afghanistan now prepares for a semifinal showdown against South Africa on Wednesday (June 26) in Trinidad. The clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as Afghanistan aim to continue their impressive campaign and reach the final of the T20 World Cup.