In a must-win game, Afghanistan won by 21 runs for their maiden win over Australia New Delhi: Afghanistan hope their stunning T20 World Cup over mighty Australia would start of a new dawn for cricket in the country. In a must-win game, the Afghans up their maiden win over Australia in a Super Eights clash in Kingstown to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Half-centuries from openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60) and Ibrahim Zadran (51) pulled them to 148 for 6 after which all-rounder Gulabdin Naib’s career-best 4/20 bowled out Australia for 127 in 19.
2 overs for an inspiring 21-run win. It led to their skipper Rashid Khan dedicating the veictiry to his team members of the war-torn nation. “Massive win for us as a team and as a nation.
Great feeling. It’s something we missed in last two years. Really happy with the win and super proud of the guys,” Rashid said at the post-match presentation.
“140 was a good total on this wicket. We didn’t finish as well as we should have. Opening partnership gave us best start.
On this wicket, anything 130-plus, we were capable of defending it as long as we kept calm and had the belief. That’s the beauty of this team, having all-rounders and having options.” Rashid praised Naib, saying: “The way Gulbadin bowled today – the experience he has, it came good today.
The way Nabi started – the wicket of Warner – was also pleasing to see. “It’s so important for us back home and around the world. I’m sure they’re proud and wo.
