The final match of the Super Eights stage in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 turned into a tense thriller between Afghanistan and Bangladesh at the Arnos Vale Ground in St Vincent. With a semi-final berth on the line, both teams came out fighting for victory.
Afghanistan Bat First, Struggle to Score Big
Opting to bat first, Afghanistan failed to capitalize on a decent opening stand. Their batsmen found it difficult to score freely against a disciplined Bangladeshi bowling attack. Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s laborious 43 off 55 balls epitomized the Afghan struggle. Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain was the pick of the Bangladeshi bowlers, claiming three wickets for just 26 runs. Afghanistan eventually limped to a below-par total of 115/5 in their 20 overs, with a late cameo from Rashid Khan providing a much-needed boost.
Bangladesh Starts Chase Under Pressure
Chasing a modest target, Bangladesh openers Litton Das and Mohammad Naim began cautiously. Rain threatened to disrupt the chase early on, but the match resumed after a brief delay. While Bangladesh started well, the pressure of needing a big win to potentially qualify for the semi-finals loomed large.
Rain Interrupts Crucial Match, Qualification Fate Hangs in Balance
With Bangladesh at 18/0 after two overs, the heavens opened up again, forcing the covers to come on. As of now, the rain shows no signs of stopping, leaving the outcome of the match and the final semi-finalist in limbo. Both Afghanistan and Bangladesh, along with Australia (whose net run rate is crucial), will be anxiously waiting for the weather to clear and a possible resumption of play.
The Stakes Remain High
This rain delay adds another layer of drama to an already pulsating encounter. Afghanistan needs just a win to secure their place in the semi-finals, while Bangladesh requires a convincing victory and a favorable outcome in the other match to progress. Cricket fans around the world will be glued to their screens, waiting to see who emerges victorious from this high-pressure clash.
Rain Washes Out Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Clash, Afghanistan Progresses to Semis
The rain that halted the crucial T20 World Cup Super Eights match between Afghanistan and Bangladesh on June 25th refused to relent, forcing the match to be abandoned. With the minimum number of overs (five) not being bowled, the result was determined by the Duckworth-Lewis method (DLS).
As Afghanistan had set a target of 116, the DLS par score for Bangladesh after five overs was a mere 25 runs. Since they had only managed 13 runs on the board, Afghanistan were declared winners by 3 wickets according to the DLS method.
This dramatic turn of events sends Afghanistan into the coveted semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the upcoming match between South Africa and England. Bangladesh, despite a strong bowling performance, are left heartbroken, their World Cup journey ending abruptly.
Disappointment for Bangladesh
The Bangladeshi camp will undoubtedly be disappointed with the outcome. Their disciplined bowling attack had restricted Afghanistan to a low score, putting them in a strong position. However, the rain played a cruel hand, denying them the chance to chase down a modest target.
Relief and Excitement for Afghanistan
For Afghanistan, the rain delay proved to be a stroke of luck. While their batting performance was underwhelming, their bowling attack had enough firepower to potentially defend the total. Now, they can celebrate reaching the semi-finals, a historic achievement for Afghan cricket.
An Unforgettable Match
The Afghanistan vs Bangladesh clash will be remembered as a match filled with tension, drama, and the unpredictable nature of the weather. It serves as a reminder that even in the most meticulously planned tournaments, a single downpour can alter the course of destiny. The cricketing world now eagerly awaits the upcoming semi-finals, where Afghanistan will aim to continue their fairytale run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
