Afghanistan kept its Twenty20 World Cup semifinal hopes alive with a remarkable 21-run victory over previously unbeaten Australia in a thrilling encounter. Despite a second hat-trick by Australian bowler Pat Cummins, Afghanistan posted 148-6 after being asked to bat first on a challenging pitch at the Arnos Vale Ground.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran's 118-run opening partnership set the stage for Afghanistan's strong total, with Gurbaz scoring 60 off 49 balls and Zadran contributing a steady 51 off 48 balls. Australia's bowlers fought back late in the innings, with Cummins claiming his second career hat-trick.
In response, Australia struggled with the bat and were eventually bowled out for 127. Only Glenn Maxwell's 59 off 41 balls provided resistance against Afghanistan's impressive bowling attack and the turning wicket. Man of the match Guldabin Naib's four-wicket haul in the middle overs proved crucial in halting Australia's chase.
Captain Rashid Khan expressed the significance of the win for Afghanistan, highlighting the pride it brings to the nation. The victory moves Afghanistan to two points in Group 1, level with Australia but behind on net run rate. India leads the group with four points, while Bangladesh remains winless.
In another match, India defeated Bangladesh by 50 runs, with Hardik Pandya's explosive half-century and Kuldeep Yadav's three-wicket haul leading the way. Pandya's unbeaten 50 off 27 balls propelled India to 196-5, while Yadav's impressive bowling restricted Bangladesh to 146-8.
India's win propelled them to the top of Group 1, with Afghanistan closely behind on two points. Bangladesh's struggles continued as they remained winless in the tournament. The final group standings will be decided in upcoming matches, with Afghanistan facing Bangladesh and Australia taking on India.
Overall, the T20 World Cup continues to deliver thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the competition intensifies.
