Afghanistan advances to World Cup semi-finals, eliminates Australia

Following the team’s victory, Rashid Khan of Afghanistan expressed gratitude towards the fans as they advanced to the Semi Finals in the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024. This exciting match took place between Afghanistan and Bangladesh at the Arnos Vale Ground on June 24, 2024, in St Vincent, Saint Vincent, and The Grenadines.

Afghanistan achieved their first-ever World Cup semi-final with a thrilling eight-run win over Bangladesh, which also resulted in knocking Australia out of the T20 tournament. Chasing a revised target of 114 runs in 19 overs due to rain interruptions, Bangladesh was bowled out for 105. Captain Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq each took four wickets in the victory, setting up a historic clash against South Africa in the semi-final.

Despite a modest total of 115-5 while batting first, Afghanistan’s hopes seemed in jeopardy. Rahmanullah Gurbaz top-scored with 43 runs, but it took 55 deliveries to reach that mark. Rishad Hossain’s three wickets triggered a collapse, but Rashid’s late onslaught of three sixes ensured a competitive total.

Bangladesh needed to chase down the target in 12.1 overs to secure a semi-final spot, but Afghanistan’s bowlers dominated. Litton Das’ unbeaten 54 was not enough as regular wickets fell, ultimately leading to their downfall. Naveen’s double-strike in the penultimate over sealed the victory, sparking emotional celebrations from the Afghanistan team.

India’s win over Australia earlier in the day set up a semi-final clash with holders England, completing the line-up for the highly anticipated semi-final matches.