T20 World Cup, Super Eight, Afghanistan vs Bangladesh: Rain continues to interrupt Bangladesh chase; Check live updates of match situation - Cricket Winner

In a high-stakes encounter in the Super 8 stage of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, rain has interrupted Bangladesh’s chase against Afghanistan after a dramatic start. Afghanistan, defending a modest target of 116 runs, had Bangladesh at 31 for 3 in 3.2 overs when the weather intervened. Bangladesh faces a challenging task to secure a semi-final spot by chasing down Afghanistan’s target of 116 runs in 12.1 overs, or 12.4 overs if they hit a six when scores are tied. Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar were at the crease, with Bangladesh needing 85 more runs from 100 balls to secure a much-needed win.

Weather disruption

As the players sprinted to their respective dugouts, the groundsmen quickly covered the pitch and surrounding areas with white sheets. The initial heavy breeze suggested the rain might soon pass, giving hope for a resumption. However, commentators have pointed out a forecast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall later, adding a layer of uncertainty to the situation. Despite the pause, there is good news from the ground as the rain stopped, and the match resumed at 9:13 AM IST (3:43 AM GMT) without any loss of overs. This gives Bangladesh a crucial chance to get back into the game.

A washout will see Afghanistan qualify as the DLS method is not yet applicable. Earlier, Rashid Khan’s late cameo pushed Afghanistan to 115 in 20 overs after a mid-innings collapse induced by Rishad Hossain and Taskin Ahmed. The spin-friendly conditions at the same venue where Afghanistan defeated Australia will favor the bowlers.

Importance of the match

This match is particularly significant for Afghanistan, who are riding the momentum of a historic victory over Australia. A win today would secure their spot in the semi-finals, marking a significant achievement for the team. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has yet to register a win in the Super 8 stage, making this a must-win match to stay in contention.

Adding to the drama, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz was injured during the match. Naveen-ul-Haq bowled a slower delivery that bounced awkwardly and struck Gurbaz on the knee cap. The Afghan wicket-keeper was in visible pain, leading to the physio being called onto the field. Despite receiving immediate treatment, Gurbaz had to leave the field, grimacing and limping, supported by the physio. Mohammad Ishaq has replaced Gurbaz as the backup wicket-keeper, with Fazalhaq Farooqi set to bowl the second over of the chase.

Rain disruption and revised target in Afghanistan vs. Bangladesh match

As rain begins to fall, head coach Jonathan Trott urges his players to slow down, but not before Gulbadin Naib goes down clutching his hamstring, leaving captain Rashid Khan visibly frustrated. With the rain intensifying, covers are swiftly brought onto the field. At this point, Afghanistan is ahead by two runs according to the DLS method. The players have now returned to the field, with Najibullah replacing the injured Naib. The match has been reduced to 19 overs, and Bangladesh’s revised target is 114 runs. Currently, Bangladesh stands at 77 for 5 in 10 overs, needing 39 runs from the remaining 60 balls, with Litton Das anchoring the innings on 37 off 29 balls.

The players have temporarily left the field due to heavier rain after 17.5 over, with Afghanistan holding a three-run advantage according to DLS calculations. Tom Moody confirms on air that covers are being removed, and the stumps are being reset as players gather near the boundary rope. Amidst uncertainty about deducting another over, Mustafizur Rahman is the last batter as play prepares to resume. Shoriful Islam’s actions signal communication to Litton Das, while messages exchange between Bravo and Farooqi. Umpires await confirmation on whether the delay warrants reducing an over; indications point towards a continuation as a 19-over game appears imminent.

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In a historic moment for Afghan cricket, Afghanistan has secured their first-ever World Cup semifinal berth. The players’ emotions overflow with tears of joy, epitomizing the significance of this achievement.

Even Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who watched from the sidelines due to a knee injury, joins in the emotional outpour, unable to conceal his tears. The match concludes with Mustafizur Rahman dismissed lbw by Naveen-ul-Haq for a golden duck, sealing Afghanistan’s monumental victory.