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In a stunning upset at the T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan defeated Australia by 21 runs at the Arnos Vale Stadium in Kingstown, St. Vincent on Saturday night. This is a historic moment for Afghan cricket, marking their first-ever victory over Australia in any format of international cricket.
Sensational bowling propels Afghanistan to victory
Asked to bowl first, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 148/6 on the board. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60) and Ibrahim Zadran (51) laid a strong foundation with a 118-run partnership before a dramatic collapse saw them lose six wickets for just 30 runs. Pat Cummins (3/28) was the pick of the Australian bowlers, claiming a hat-trick in the final over of the innings.
Also WATCH: Pat Cummins creates history, takes second hat-trick in T20 World Cup history
However, Afghanistan’s bowlers proved to be even more clinical. Led by the brilliant Gulbadin Naib (4-19), they ripped through the Australian batting order. The powerful Australian batting lineup, known for their fearsome hitting, was restricted to a mere 127 all out in 19.2 overs. Only Glenn Maxwell (59) offered any resistance, but his knock proved insufficient against the inspired Afghan bowling attack.
Celebrations erupt as Afghanistan makes history
This victory is a monumental achievement for Afghanistan. They have been steadily improving in recent years, and defeating a cricketing giant like Australia will serve as a huge confidence booster. The celebrations in the Afghan camp are sure to be electric, and this win will undoubtedly inspire a generation of young Afghan cricketers.
Australia’s unbeaten run comes to an end
The loss marks the end of Australia’s unbeaten run in the tournament so far. It also throws the Group 1 Super 8 stage wide open, with both Afghanistan and Australia now in contention for a place in the semi-finals. This historic upset has undoubtedly injected a shot of excitement into the remainder of the T20 World Cup 2024.
