Captain Rashid Khan Shines as Afghanistan Secures Spot in Final Four, Ousting Australia

 Afghanistan, led by captain Rashid Khan's stellar all-round performance, triumphed over Bangladesh by eight runs in the last Super Eight match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. This historic win not only secured Afghanistan's first-ever semifinal berth but also eliminated the 2021 champions, Australia, from the tournament. Rashid Khan's crucial 10-ball 19, featuring three sixes, helped Afghanistan set a modest target of 115 for 5 in their 20 overs after opting to bat first. The team had a cautious start with openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran struggling to replicate their earlier performances. Gurbaz top-scored with a 55-ball 43.

 In a rain-interrupted chase, Bangladesh was bowled out for 105 runs in 17.5 overs. Rashid Khan was instrumental with the ball, claiming 4 for 26 and dismantling Bangladesh’s middle order by taking the key wickets of Soumya Sarkar, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, and Rishad Hossain. Naveen-ul-Haq supported Rashid brilliantly, also picking up four wickets, including the final two.

 Despite a valiant effort from Litton Das, who remained unbeaten on 54, Bangladesh fell short. Afghanistan will face South Africa in the first semifinal, while India will take on England in the second.