Naib’s Heroics Lead AFG to Shocking Win Against Australia

News Desk 

Islamabad: In a stunning upset, Afghanistan won over Australia by 21 runs in the 48th match of the T20 World Cup, held in Kingston. 

Australia, having won the toss, opted to field first.  

Afghanistan set a target of 149 runs, with an impressive opening partnership of 118 runs between Rahmatullah Garbaz contributing 60 runs.

Australia’s top order struggled against Afghanistan’s seamers, jeopardizing their chances of securing a semi-final spot. 

Glenn Maxwell attempted to salvage the innings with an array of innovative shots, including a notable four off Azmatullah Omarzai, and reached a 35-ball half-century.

However, Maxwell’s promising knock was cut short at 59 off 41 balls by a combined effort from Gulbadin Naib and Noor Ahmad.

Noor’s spectacular catch at backward point off Naib’s delivery marked a turning point, leaving Australia at 106 for 6 in the 15th over, still needing 43 runs off 32 balls.

Gulbadin Naib exploited the pitch conditions, which offered sharp turn and variable bounce, to achieve his career-best T20I figures of 4 for 20.

His crucial wickets of Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, and Pat Cummins helped Afghanistan bowl out Australia for 127 runs, sealing their first-ever victory over Australia in any format.

Earlier in the match, Pat Cummins had secured a hat-trick in consecutive World Cup games and nearly claimed four wickets in as many balls.

However, the day ultimately belonged to Naib and Afghanistan, marking a historic win for the team.