Yesterday the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup saw two cricketing giants experience different fortunes- at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent, Afghanistan won over Australia by 21 runs with thrilling cricket while England secured a dominant 10-wicket win over the United States at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados booking their spot for the semi-finals.
Afghanistan Upsets Australia:
Australia, considered favourites, won the toss and chose to field first. Afghanistan batted first and set a modest aim of 149 runs. However, their bowling attack proved to be their most powerful weapon. Afghanistan, led by speed pair Gulbadin Naib (4/20) and Naveen-ul-Haq (3/20), blasted through Australia’s batting lineup. Openers Aaron Finch and David Warner fell cheaply, laying the groundwork for a wobbly Australian chase.
Despite striking games presented by Glenn Maxwell who scored 38 runs, Australian middle order offered no resistance worth recognizing. They would eventually get all out scoring 127 runs thereby handing over a historic victory to Afghanistan. This victory then appears to put forth Afghanistan’s dream of proceeding to the semifinals.
England Crushes USA:
The reigning champions, England, decided to bowl first after winning the toss in Barbados. The American team was limited by England’s bowling attack, who only scored 115 runs. This was due to an excellent performance by Chris Jordan who grabbed a hat-trick before ending up with 4/18 that included crucial wickets in his last over. The other end was tightened by Rashid’s brilliant economy spell of 1/13.
Chasing a small target, England openers Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan made short work of it. Buttler, in particular, was unstoppable, smashing an unbeaten 83 runs off just 38 deliveries. England chased down the target in a mere 9.4 overs, showcasing their dominance in the tournament so far.
Looking Ahead:
The comprehensive victory of England has solidified their position as favourites. They are waiting for their semifinalist, who will emerge from the rest of Super 8 matches. On the other hand, Afghanistan has revived its campaign. They are required to win all their remaining games so that they can be able to qualify for a maiden semifinal spot through other people’s misfortunes.
The World Cup has become increasingly exciting because there isn’t only one favourite anymore. This therefore means that fans from different parts of the world will have their hearts racing when they watch those upcoming games.
