Afghanistan secured a place in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 with an 8-run victory over Bangladesh (DLS method) in a rain-affected Super 8 match on June 25 at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan struggled initially and posted 115/5 in their 20 overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was the top scorer with 43 off 55 balls, while captain Rashid Khan contributed a quick 19* off 10 balls.

For Bangladesh, Rishad was the standout bowler with figures of 3/26 in his four overs. Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman each took a wicket.

Rain delayed the start of Bangladesh’s chase, and upon resumption, they lost early wickets: Tanzid Hasan (0), Najmul Hossain Shanto (5), and Shakib Al Hasan (0). At 31/3 in 3.3 overs, rain interrupted play again, but no overs were lost.

Soumya Sarkar (10) and Towhid Hridoy (14) attempted to stabilize the innings but were dismissed by Rashid Khan. Despite Litton Das’s unbeaten 54 off 49 balls, Bangladesh were all out for 105 in 17.5 overs, chasing a revised target of 114 in 19 overs.

Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq each took four wickets for Afghanistan, while Gulbadin Naib and Fazalhaq Farooqi claimed one wicket apiece.

Afghanistan’s win eliminated Australia’s chances of advancing, and Bangladesh was knocked out after failing to meet the target in 12.1 overs.

The cricket community praised Afghanistan’s bowlers for their composure in a low-scoring game and congratulated the team on reaching their first-ever semi-final.