Cricket

The T20 World Cup Group A is set for a thrilling conclusion as India and USA face off in a crucial match that will determine the fate of both teams. India, the 2007 champions, are aiming for a hat-trick of wins to secure their place in the 'Super 8' phase, while USA, the tournament debutants, have stunned the cricketing world with their giant-killing performances.USA's remarkable run began with a historic bilateral series win over Bangladesh, followed by an upset victory against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. They continued their winning streak by defeating Canada in the tournament opener. With two wins in two matches, USA are unbeaten in the tournament and pose a significant threat to India's qualification hopes.However, India's victory over Pakistan in a thrilling contest has put them in the driver's seat. The win propelled India to the top of Group A, followed by USA, Pakistan, Canada, and Ireland.Impact of India vs USA Match on 'Super 8' Qualification:If India Wins:* India will advance to the 'Super 8s', joining South Africa and Australia.* Pakistan's campaign will receive a lifeline, but they will need India to win by a significant margin to improve their net run rate.* USA will have a chance to qualify for the 'Super 8s' with a win over Ireland in their last match.If USA Wins:* USA will qualify for the 'Super 8s'.* Pakistan, Canada, and Ireland will be eliminated from contention.* India will need to win their last match against Canada to join USA in the 'Super 8s'.The India vs USA match is a must-win for both teams, and the outcome will have a significant impact on the qualification scenario for the 'Super 8' phase.

Afghanistan's cricket team continues to make history, stunning New Zealand by 84 runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The victory adds to Afghanistan's impressive recent record, which includes wins over England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.Chasing 160 after Rahmanullah Gurbaz's brilliant 80, New Zealand's batting collapsed. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Rashid Khan decimated the Kiwi lineup, taking four wickets each. Mohammad Nabi also contributed with two wickets.Experts and fans hailed Afghanistan's performance. Former India batsman Wasim Jaffer praised their "top notch professional display," while former New Zealand cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan humorously tweeted, "How do I report a murder in Guyana?"Afghanistan's win puts them in a strong position in Group C, with four points and a healthy net run rate of +5.2. They next face Papua New Guinea on June 14, while New Zealand takes on West Indies on June 13.Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja, who worked with Afghanistan as a mentor during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, praised the team's character. "They are very special people as human beings," said Jadeja.Irfan Pathan, a winner of the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, believes Afghanistan's batting holds the key to their success. "If their batting clicks regularly, they can be a very dangerous side in this World Cup," tweeted Pathan.Afghanistan's victory is a testament to their growing strength in international cricket. They have consistently punched above their weight, and their recent performances suggest that they are capable of even greater achievements.