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Afghanistan secured their place in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 semi-finals after defeating Bangladesh at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent. Defending a target of 115, Afghanistan won by 8 runs via the DLS method after rain interruptions revised Bangladesh’s target to 114 in 19 overs.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz anchored Afghanistan’s innings with 43 off 55 balls, supported by contributions from the lower order to reach 115/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain claimed 3/26.
Facing a must-win situation, Afghanistan’s bowlers rose to the challenge. Skipper Rashid Khan and pacer Naveen-Ul-Haq each took four wickets, bowling out Bangladesh for 105 runs. This victory marks Afghanistan’s first-ever semi-final qualification in any ICC event, underscoring their giant-killing form throughout the tournament, including an earlier upset over New Zealand in the group stage.
Australia’s elimination from the tournament follows consecutive defeats to Afghanistan and India in the Super 8 stage, sealing their exit from contention.
ICC T20 World Cup Semi-Final Schedule 2024
South Africa vs Afghanistan – Semi-Final 1 – Trinidad, June 26
South Africa and England secured their spots in the semi-finals from Group 2. Despite two losses, England advanced first by defeating the USA, while South Africa overcame West Indies to qualify.
The Proteas, known for their ability to win tight matches, will now face Afghanistan in the first semi-final on June 26. Afghanistan has made waves in the tournament with victories over New Zealand, Australia, and Bangladesh, marking historic achievements in their cricketing journey. They are determined to reach the T20 World Cup final.
The Afghan team is confident and poised to challenge South Africa in this crucial knockout encounter. Despite South Africa’s previous victories over Afghanistan in T20Is, the semi-final presents a new challenge and a different level of competition.
India and England will clash in the second semi-final match at Guyana on June 27. India, undefeated in the tournament so far, will confront the familiar challenge of England. Their recent victory over Australia, defended by a strong bowling performance after setting a target of 205 runs, showcased the pivotal innings of Rohit Sharma, who scored 92 runs off 41 balls, with 76 runs coming from boundaries.
In contrast, England has had a mixed campaign, suffering losses to Australia in the group stage and South Africa in the Super 8 stage. Despite these setbacks, they secured their place in the semi-finals ahead of others. Notably, England defeated India in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2022, a fact not lost on India as they prepare for this encounter in Guyana.
Both teams have a rich history in the T20 World Cup, with India aiming for their second title and England having won twice before, in 2010 and 2022. This upcoming match promises a high-stakes showdown, with India eager to advance and vie for the championship once again.
