Historic Win for Afghanistan: Defeats Australia in T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan Secures First Ever Win Against Australia at T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan celebrated a historic night in their cricket history when they beat Australia by 21 runs in their Super Eight clash at the T20 World Cup 2024 in Saint Vincent. The win on Saturday night was Afghanistan’s first ever against the 2021 T20 champions and six-time 50-over champions, giving them a chance of qualifying for the semifinals.

Gulbadin Naib took 4 wickets in his four overs, conceding only 20 runs. Afghanistan restricted Australia to 127 all out in 19.2 overs while chasing 149. Glenn Maxwell’s 59 off 41 balls was Australia’s highest score, but Naib’s dismissal of Maxwell in the 15th over triggered a collapse. Naveen ul Haq also played a key role, taking three wickets in his four overs with an economy rate of five runs per over.

Afghanistan’s renowned spin attack, led by captain Rashid Khan, kept things tight. Rashid took one wicket, conceding just 23 runs in his four overs, while Mohammad Nabi dismissed David Warner for three runs.

Afghanistan play Bangladesh next, aiming for a big win to secure a semifinal berth. Rashid Khan highlighted the win’s significance for the Afghan people and praised Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran for their 118-run opening partnership.

Australia’s chase was hampered early by Naveen ul Haq’s dismissal of Travis Head. The Afghan team’s disciplined bowling and fielding sealed a famous win, leading to wild celebrations.

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh admitted his team was “outplayed” and now faces a crucial match against India, where a loss could end their tournament hopes.