Afghanistan secured their inaugural T20 World Cup semi-final berth with a thrilling eight-run victory over Bangladesh in a rain-affected match at Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Monday.
Despite defending a modest total of 115 for five on a challenging pitch, Afghan captain Rashid Khan overcame three rain interruptions, a wet ball, and a revised target of 114 from 19 overs. He claimed four wickets for 23 runs as Bangladesh, who had slim hopes of qualifying, were bowled out for 105 in 17.5 overs.
Bangladesh’s opener Litton Das scored an unbeaten 54 and nearly guided his team to victory, which would have sent Australia to the semi-finals on net run rate. However, pacer Naveenul Haq dismissed Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman in consecutive deliveries in the penultimate over, sparking jubilant celebrations for Afghanistan.
Earlier in the day, India’s win over Australia confirmed Afghanistan’s second place in the group, knocking out both Australia and Bangladesh from the tournament.
Afghanistan will now meet South Africa in the first semi-final in Trinidad on Wednesday, while India will face England in the second semi-final in Guyana on Thursday.
