Afghanistan Stuns Australia in T20 World Cup, Keeps Semi-Final Hopes Alive

Afghanistan's stunning 21-run victory over Australia in the Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup has reignited their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The win was orchestrated by a brilliant opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, who shared a 118-run stand to set the platform for a competitive total of 148-6.

Gurbaz and Zadran dominated the Australian bowlers in the early overs, showcasing crisp batting and aggressive running. Their partnership put pressure on the Australians, who made uncharacteristic fielding errors under the lights at the Arnos Vale Ground. Gurbaz reached his half-century before being dismissed for 60, while Zadran contributed 51.

Australia's chase got off to a disastrous start as Naveen-ul-Haq dismissed Travis Head for a duck in the opening over. Mitchell Marsh and David Warner also fell cheaply, leaving the Australians struggling at 32-3. The explosive Glenn Maxwell provided some hope with a battling 59 off 41 balls, but his dismissal by Gulbadin Naib sealed the fate of the former champions.

Naib emerged as the pick of the Afghan bowlers, claiming 4-20, while Naveen-ul-Haq bagged 3-20. Pat Cummins, who had taken two hat-tricks in the tournament, became the first bowler to take two hat-tricks in a single T20 World Cup. However, his efforts were not enough to prevent Australia's defeat.

The win keeps Afghanistan alive in the tournament, with India and Australia still in contention for the semi-finals. India currently tops Group 1 with four points, followed by Australia and Afghanistan with two points each. Bangladesh remains in last place with no points.

India and Australia will face off in St. Lucia on Monday, while Afghanistan will play Bangladesh in the final Super Eight match later that day.

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