(AP Photo)
Afghanistan made history by reaching their first T20 World Cup semi-final. They secured an exciting eight-run victory (DLS method) over Bangladesh to clinch their spot.
While the thrilling cricket action captivated fans, off-field events also grabbed attention. Gulbadin Naib took center stage with his surprising behavior during the match. Positioned at first slip, Naib suddenly dropped to the ground, clutching his hamstring during Bangladesh’s innings. This controversial incident briefly halted play, prompting a reaction from Australian captain Mitchell Marsh. Describing the scene, Marsh referred to it as “one of the most amusing moments I’ve witnessed on a cricket field,” reported by cricket.com.au.
Just as Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott signaled his players to ease the game’s tempo, Gulbadin Naib appeared to sustain an injury. This incident coincided with the DLS method indicating Bangladesh needed two more runs. Naib went down just before Noor Ahmad could deliver the fifth ball of the 12th over in Bangladesh’s innings.
Afghanistan’s triumph over Bangladesh led to Australia’s exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. “I was almost in tears laughing and at the end of the day it had no bearing on the game. So we can laugh about it now – but gee it was funny. It was outstanding,” Mitchell Marsh added.
Rashid Khan said, “He had some cramp. I don’t know what happened to him and I don’t know what’s going on in social media but that doesn’t matter,” as percricket.com.au.
Gulbadin Naib’s surprising behavior amused the commentary panel, with former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull hinting it could earn recognition. The umpire halted play when Naib appeared injured, coinciding with rain interrupting the game and prompting both teams to leave the field.
After a brief delay, play resumed with Bangladesh needing to chase a revised target of 114 runs in fewer overs. Najibullah Zadran substituted for Naib until his return in the 13th over, where he later took the wicket of Tanzim Hasan Sakib in the 15th over.
Afghanistan’s next challenge is against South Africa in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled for Thursday, June 27th.