Afghanistan Opt to Chase Against West Indies in T20 World Cup Group Finale

In the final group match of the men's T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan elected to field after winning the toss against West Indies at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St Lucia.

Afghanistan fielded an unchanged lineup, while West Indies made two alterations. Romario Shepherd was replaced by Obed McCoy, who was given an opportunity to play after Shepherd returned home for the birth of his second child. Shai Hope also came into the side in place of Roston Chase, bolstering the batting lineup.

The match was played on a fresh pitch, with the wind expected to be a significant factor. Rashid Khan expressed his desire for his team to experience chasing a total, as they had only done so once in the tournament against Papua New Guinea.

West Indies, led by Rovman Powell, opted to bat first. Their lineup featured Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Nicholas Pooran, Shai Hope, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, and Obed McCoy.

Afghanistan's bowling attack consisted of Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad, Rashid Khan, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, and Ibrahim Zadran.

The match was crucial for both teams, as a victory would secure their place in the Super Eight stage of the tournament. Afghanistan had already qualified for the Super Eight, while West Indies needed a win to join them.

Tags: #T20WorldCup, #Afghanistan, #WestIndies, #Toss, #Chasing