(Web Desk) — In a major upset at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan triumphed over Australia by 21 runs in the Super 8 clash held on Sunday at Kingstown, St. Vincent.
This victory marks Afghanistan’s first-ever win against Australia in cricket. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran’s impressive opening stand of 118 runs propelled Afghanistan to a remarkable win, keeping their semi-final hopes alive. Afghanistan posted a total of 148-6 in their 20 overs, thanks to half-centuries from Gurbaz and Zadran.

Despite Pat Cummins taking his second hat-trick in as many matches, Australia failed to maintain their unbeaten record in the tournament, being bowled out for 127 on a challenging Kingstown pitch. Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq were instrumental in Afghanistan’s victory, claiming 4-20 and 3-20 respectively. The opening partnership between Gurbaz and Zadran, their third-century stand of the tournament, laid the groundwork for Afghanistan’s win, which also keeps Bangladesh’s semi-final hopes alive.

In Group 1, India leads with four points, followed by Australia and Afghanistan with two points each, while Bangladesh is in last place with none. India and Australia will face each other in St Lucia on Monday, while Afghanistan will stay in St Vincent to play Bangladesh in the final Super 8 match later the same day.

Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh won the toss and chose to field, surprising many by including left-arm spinner Ashton Agar in place of Mitchell Starc. Early on, it seemed the Australian bowlers might dominate, but the solid partnership between Gurbaz and Zadran allowed Afghanistan to gain momentum through the middle overs. Crisp batting and aggressive running between the wickets put pressure on the Australian fielders, who made several uncharacteristic errors under the lights at Arnos Vale Ground.