• Afghanistan A secured a 20-run victory over India A in the semi-finals of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup T20.

  • Despite Ramandeep Singh's impressive half-century, India A fell short against Afghanistan A, who will now face Sri Lanka A in the tournament final.

Twitter reactions: Afghanistan A knocks India A out of Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024
Afghanistan A knocks India A out of Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 (Images source: X)

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In a gripping encounter at the Oman Cricket Academy Ground, Afghanistan A edged out India A by 20 runs, securing their place in the final of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup T20 tournament. Despite a valiant effort from Ramandeep Singh, whose half-century was not enough to steer India A to victory, Afghanistan’s clinical performance showcased their potential on the international stage.

Dominant Afghanistan sets the pace

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan A laid a solid foundation with a remarkable opening partnership of 137 runs between Sediqullah Atal and Zubaid Akbari. Atal scored an impressive 83 runs off just 52 balls, while Akbari contributed 64 off 41 deliveries. Their aggressive batting dismantled the Indian bowling attack, propelling Afghanistan to a formidable total of 206/4, the highest score of the tournament thus far.

The powerplay saw Afghanistan race to 61 runs without loss, as both openers found their rhythm early. Zubaid’s innings included four sixes and five fours, while Atal matched his aggression with four sixes and seven boundaries. Following their dismissals, Karim Janat added a brisk 41 runs off 20 balls, maintaining the momentum for Afghanistan.

However, it was Rasikh Salam who turned the tide for India with a stellar bowling performance. He claimed three crucial wickets, including two in consecutive deliveries during the death overs, which briefly halted Afghanistan’s scoring spree.

Also PAK-A vs UAE [WATCH]: Basil Hameed produces a stunning run out in the Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024

India A’s rocky chase to the big total

In response, India A faced an uphill battle from the outset. They stumbled early, losing three wickets within the powerplay and finding themselves at 48/3 after just over five overs. The pressure mounted as Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, and captain Tilak Varma fell cheaply to Allah Mohammed Ghazanfar and Abdul Rahman.

Despite this shaky start, Ramandeep emerged as a beacon of hope for India A. He formed a crucial partnership with Nishant Sindhu, adding 68 runs in just 31 balls. Ramandeep’s aggressive knock of 64 runs off 34 balls reignited India’s hopes as they approached the final overs needing 53 runs from three overs. Unfortunately for India A, a critical moment arrived when Nishant was run out due to a miscommunication after scoring 23 runs off 13 balls. This dismissal shifted momentum back to Afghanistan as they tightened their grip on the match.

With India needing 30 runs in the last over, Rahman stepped up to defend the total for Afghanistan. The pressure was palpable as Ramandeep managed to hit two boundaries but ultimately fell victim on the last ball of the match, leaving India stranded at 186/7.

The match concluded with Afghanistan celebrating a hard-fought victory that not only secured their place in the final against Sri Lanka A but also marked a significant achievement in their cricketing journey.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: Ayush Badoni guides India A to a clinical win over Oman in Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.