In the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan pulled off an upset of epic proportions with a surprise 21-run win over mighty Australia. Gulbadin Naik’s four-wicket haul upending Pat Cummins’ hat-trick created one of the most memorable days in Afghan cricket.
On a difficult batting wicket, utilizing the slower balls smartly, Afghanistan defended their total of 148 for six for their first-ever win over Australia in an international cricket match. In 19.2 overs, Australia were all out for 127.
Afghanistan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60) and Ibrahim Zadran (51) forged a 118-run partnership. However, Pat Cummins registered his second successive hat-trick spread across two overs to restrict Afghanistan to an effortless total.
In the powerplay, Australia were reduced to 32 for 3. However, Glenn Maxwell slammed a 41-ball 59 to somewhat resurrect the chase. Naib’s timely strikes proved crucial in toppling the 2021 champions.
Defending 149 on a spin-friendly wicket, Afghanistan had an excellent beginning as Naveen-ul-Haq picked up two early wickets with the new ball to peg Australia back. Azmatullah concluded the match by dismissing Josh Hazlewood.
Afghanistan players jumped in happiness and were joined by their support staff members to commemorate the victory.
The outcome has opened up Group 1 as both Australia and Afghanistan now have one triumph each with one match to go, while India sits atop the table with two victories from as many matches.
On Monday, Australia now must win their match against India and also hope that Afghanistan lose to Bangladesh in their next cricket match.
