In a thrilling T20 World Cup 2024 Group 1 clash, Afghanistan upset Australia by 21 runs at Arnos Vale Ground, Arnos Vale, St Vincent, dealing a severe blow to the 2021 champions’ semi-final hopes. Afghanistan’s victory was powered by Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s 60 and Ibhram Zadran’s 51, guiding them to a competitive total of 148/6. Australia faltered in their chase, succumbing to Gulbadin Naib’s stellar bowling performance of 4/20, being bowled out for 127.
With this result, India secured their spot in the semi-finals, topping the group standings. Even a loss to Australia in their next match cannot dislodge India from the top spot unless Afghanistan manages a substantial victory over Bangladesh and surpasses India on net run rate (NRR), provided India loses to Australia.
Australia now faces an uphill battle to qualify, currently second on the points table with one win and one loss. Their final Super 8 league game against India at Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia, will be decisive. Afghanistan, on the other hand, faces Bangladesh in their last game, also at Gros Islet, where they are favored to win.
For Australia to reach the semi-finals, they must defeat India and hope Bangladesh defeats Afghanistan. Should Australia lose to India and Afghanistan also lose to Bangladesh, qualification will hinge on NRR.
In the event both Australia and Afghanistan win their matches, NRR will once again decide the second semi-finalist from Group 1. Afghanistan would need a convincing victory over Bangladesh to bolster their chances.
The T20 World Cup 2024 continues to deliver intense action and thrilling scenarios as teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals.