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Afghanistan celebrated with tears of joy as they secured a historic semi-final berth in the T20 World Cup 2024. Captain Jonathan Trott and head coach Jonathan Trott were visibly emotional after their team’s victory over Bangladesh at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St. Vincent.
The match was a tough challenge for Afghanistan, knowing that only a victory would propel them into the semi-finals. Despite facing immense pressure, they maintained composure and emerged victorious in the end.
Following the match, Afghanistan’s players jubilantly marked their dramatic advancement into the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2024. Celebrating on the field, they expressed gratitude to the fans in the stadium for their unwavering support.
For the players, this achievement was deeply emotional, as they had long awaited such a moment. Captain Rashid Khan and head coach Jonathan Trott were visibly moved and overcome with tears of joy, reflecting their immense happiness and pride in the team’s performance.
Afghanistan’s historic victory has resulted in Australia being eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2024. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan started steadily, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz scoring 43 off 55 balls, but struggled to accelerate. Despite a solid foundation, the middle order faltered as they attempted aggressive strokes. Captain Rashid Khan’s quickfire 19 not out off 10 deliveries helped Afghanistan reach a competitive total of 115.
In response to the modest target of 116, Bangladesh’s top order succumbed to Afghanistan’s potent opening bowlers, Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who had been impressive throughout the tournament. Bangladesh found themselves at 32-3 early on and despite a resilient effort from Litton Das, who remained unbeaten on 54 off 49 balls, Bangladesh was eventually bowled out for 105 in 17.5 overs. Naveen-ul-Haq and Rashid Khan excelled with four wickets each, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
With this crucial win, Afghanistan’s advancement has ended Australia’s hopes in the T20 World Cup 2024. Earlier, Australia’s defeat by 24 runs in their match necessitated them relying on Bangladesh’s performance to qualify for the semi-finals.
As a result, the semi-final matchups are now confirmed. Afghanistan will take on South Africa on June 27 at Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad in the first semi-final. Meanwhile, the second semi-final will feature a rematch of the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final between India and England at Providence Stadium, Guyana, also on June 27.
