Under inspirational skipper Rashid Khan’s leadership, Afghanistan pulled off a memorable eight-run win over Bangladesh yesterday to script history and secure their place in the semifinals of the ongoing T20 World Cup. Chasing a modest total of 115, Bangladesh were restricted to 107/9 thanks to Rashid’s four-wicket haul.
Earlier, Afghanistan lost early wickets after opting to bat but Rashid’s late onslaught ensured they finished with a competitive score. The star all-rounder smashed 19 crucial runs off just 10 balls, clubbing three maximums in the death overs to give his team a fighting chance. Bangladesh bowlers had kept things tight initially.
When Bangladesh batted, the interruptions due to rain didn’t help their cause. Even though Litton Das played a gritty 54-run knock, Bangladesh kept losing wickets at regular intervals on a tricky surface. Rashid wreaked havoc once again, dismissing the key batters to shift the momentum. Naveen-ul-Haq ably supported with four scalps of his own.
Afghanistan have etched their name in the history books by becoming the first ever to make the T20 World Cup semi-finals. They will now clash with South Africa in the first knockout clash for a spot in the final. Under Rashid’s inspiring leadership, Afghanistan are dreaming of greater heights in this tournament.
