By D.W.G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
A Tense Triumph in St Vincent
In a thrilling and rain affected match in St Vincent, Afghanistan achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the semi finals of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the first time. Their eight run victory over Bangladesh was secured through the DLS method, capping a tense and low scoring encounter that saw Afghanistan's bowlers rise to the occasion.
Afghanistan, needing a win to advance, managed a modest total of 115-5 in their 20 overs, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz top scoring with 43 off 55 balls. Despite a slow start and frequent interruptions by rain, Afghanistan's bowling duo, Rashid Khan and Naveen ul Haq, each took four wickets to stifle Bangladesh's chase. Rashid's crucial late innings boost with three sixes and the tight bowling performances were pivotal in securing the win.
Bangladesh, aiming for their first World Cup semi final, had a revised target of 114 off 19 overs but needed to achieve it within 12.1 overs to progress on net run rate (NRR). Litton Das stood out with an unbeaten 54, but crucial dismissals of Shakib al Hasan and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto by Naveen in the third over hindered their chase. Despite their efforts, Bangladesh fell short, and Afghanistan's dramatic win eliminated both Bangladesh and tournament heavyweights Australia from the competition.
The Journey to the Semi Finals
Afghanistan's journey to the semi finals marks a significant chapter in their cricketing history. Emerging from the labyrinthine qualifying events of the 2000s, Afghanistan has steadily become a regular in major tournaments. This year's progression from the Super 8s Group 1 as runners up highlights their remarkable growth.
Their path to the semi finals included a mix of highs and lows. After advancing from Group C, they faced setbacks with heavy losses to West Indies and India. However, a decisive victory over previously unbeaten Australia revitalized their campaign, putting them in prime position for the knockout stages. Consistent performances by openers Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran laid the foundation, though they struggled against Bangladesh's disciplined bowling.
Afghanistan's qualification for the semi finals was met with celebrations back home, despite the country's ongoing security issues. The team, coached by Jonathan Trott since 2022, has played their fixtures in the UAE due to the volatile situation in Afghanistan. Trott, who has never visited Afghanistan, has guided the team through a tumultuous period, including the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, which led to the disbandment of Afghanistan's women's national team and subsequent international boycotts.
With their semi final match against South Africa in Trinidad on Thursday, Afghanistan stands on the brink of a potentially historic final against either England or India. This remarkable journey underscores the resilience and determination of Afghanistan's cricket team, as they continue to forge new paths on the global stage.