The indomitable Rashid Khan led from the front to take Afghanistan past Bangladesh by eight runs in this rain-affected Super 8 match and wrap up their first-ever T20 World Cup semifinal berth, adding one more significant chapter to their cricketing journey that had walked along the lanes of war, political turmoil, and even a lack of a regular home base.
Afghanistan struggled to 115/5 on a tough pitch where Bangladesh bowlers utilised to the fullest with 66 dot balls after opting to bat first following a win in the toss. Bangladesh target will now be 114. The match has reduced to 19 overs per side following rain interruptions.
While Rishad Hossain starred with 3/26 for Bangladesh, Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz held firm with a patient 43 off 55 balls. Though they struggled in the run department, Afghanistan showed their spirit and variety in bowling, led by Rashid Khan with 4/23 and pacer Naveen-ul-Haq with 4/26.
Bangladesh, chasing, found themselves struggling at 105 all out in 17.5 overs, with Litton Das fighting a lone battle -- 54 not out. The Afghan team, known for strategic acumen, defended their modest total rather well to seal a historic semifinal spot against South Africa on June 27.
This win did not just oust defending champions Australia but reiterated, once more, Afghanistan's rise as an international cricketing force after ICC membership in 2017. It was a success story well curated with a lot of flair and finesse through the individual performances that came from Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran and the bowling abilities of Rashid Khan to show maturity through adversity.
There was some controversy regarding delays and tactical maneuvers in this match—showing the competitive intensity and the stakes. This is another milestone Afghanistan celebrates, but the journey continues to defy odds, inspiring hope amidst adversity.
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