With a thrilling 8-run victory over Bangladesh, Afghanistan's national cricket team qualified for their first ever T20 World Cup semifinal. The win also knocked out heavyweights Australia, who were relying on a Bangladeshi victory to advance. Captain Rashid Khan and bowler Naveen-ul-Haq were the heroes of the match, both taking four wickets each to secure the historic win. Afghanistan will now face South Africa in the semifinals, with India going up against defending champions England in the other match.
Afghanistan's Historic Victory Over Bangladesh Qualifies Them for T20 World Cup Semifinal
In a thrilling match at Adelaide Oval on Friday, Afghanistan's national cricket team defeated Bangladesh by 8 runs, securing their place in the semifinals of the ongoing T20 World Cup. The victory also sent shockwaves through the tournament, as it eliminated heavily favored Australia, who were relying on a Bangladeshi win to progress.
Match Highlights
Afghanistan's captain, Rashid Khan, led by example, taking four wickets for 29 runs. Naveen-ul-Haq was equally impressive, claiming four wickets for 35 runs. Their exceptional bowling performance restricted Bangladesh to a modest score of 127/7 in 20 overs.
In the run chase, Afghanistan lost wickets at regular intervals, but Najibullah Zadran played a crucial knock of 73 runs off 48 deliveries to keep their hopes alive. He received support from Ibrahim Zadran, who scored 23 runs.
Bangladesh's bowlers fought back gamely, with Mustafizur Rahman taking three wickets. However, Afghanistan held their nerve in the final over, securing the victory with just one ball to spare.
Background
Afghanistan's qualification for the semifinals marks a historic moment for the country. It is the first time they have reached the last four of a major international cricket tournament. Their journey has been remarkable, considering the challenges they have faced over the years, including political turmoil and a lack of infrastructure.
Impact on Australia
Australia's elimination from the tournament was a major upset. They were one of the favorites to win the title, but their reliance on Bangladesh to beat Afghanistan proved to be their downfall. The result has left many Australian fans and experts disappointed.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When will Afghanistan play in the semifinals? Afghanistan will face South Africa in the semifinals on November 9 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
2. Who will India face in the semifinals? India will face defending champions England in the other semifinal on November 10 at the Adelaide Oval.
3. Who took the most wickets for Afghanistan in the match against Bangladesh? Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq both took four wickets each.
4. How many runs did Najibullah Zadran score in the match? Najibullah Zadran scored 73 runs off 48 deliveries.
5. Who was named the Player of the Match? Rashid Khan was named the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance.
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