New Delhi: In a stunning upset, Afghanistan clinched victory against Australia in a thrilling Super-8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2024, marking their first-ever win over Australia in ICC tournaments. The match, held at an electrifying venue in the West Indies, saw Afghanistan dominate across all facets of the game to secure a 21-run triumph.Afghanistan creates history Opting to bat first, Afghanistan set a target of 149 runs for Australia, propelled by a solid opening partnership between Gurbaz and Zadran, who contributed 118 runs in 15.5 overs. Despite a promising start, Australias Pat Cummins staged a remarkable comeback with a hat-trick, restricting Afghanistan to 148 runs for 6 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.Australia faced uphill battle In response, Australia faced an uphill battle against Afghanistans formidable bowling attack. Despite Glenn Maxwells resilient 59-run knock, Australia faltered under pressure, managing only 127 runs before being bowled out. Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq emerged as Afghanistans heroes with exceptional bowling performances, claiming a combined 7 wickets to dismantle Australias lineup.Pat Cummins hat-trick Pat Cumminss hat-trick, which marked consecutive hat-tricks against Afghanistan in T20 World Cup history, was a standout moment amidst Australias efforts. However, it wasnt enough to thwart Afghanistans determined display in the crucial encounter. With this victory, Afghanistan keeps their hopes alive in the tournament, while Australia faces a must-win scenario against Team India to stay in contention. This match not only marks a historic milestone for Afghanistan but also underscores their growing prowess in international cricket.T20 World Cup 2024The result signifies a reversal of fortunes from previous encounters between the two teams in ICC tournaments, where Australia had emerged victorious in the T20 World Cup 2022 and the 2023 ODI World Cup. The T20 World Cup 2024 continues to deliver surprises and intense competition as teams vie for supremacy in the prestigious tournament held in the Caribbean.
