Afghanistan's Historic Run Ends With Batting Collapse In T20 World Cup Semi-Final

Afghanistan's batting lineup crumbled to 56 all out against South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final at Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad & Tobago. This match took place on Wednesday, June 26.

Choosing to bat first in their maiden semi-final, Afghanistan faced early setbacks. Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed by Marco Jansen in the first over. Jansen also took the wickets of Gulbadin Naib and Nangeyalia Khan during the powerplay.

Kagiso Rabada contributed significantly by taking two wickets within the first six overs. He dismissed Mohammad Nabi and Ibrahim Zardan, leaving Afghanistan struggling at 23 for 5 after five overs. Anrich Nortje then removed Azmatullah Omarzai and Rashid Khan.

Tabraiz Shamsi later dismantled the lower order, finishing with figures of 3 for 6 in 1.5 overs. He took the wickets of Karim Janat, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Noor Ahmad. Omarzai was the only Afghan player to reach double digits, scoring 10 off 12 balls.

During this batting collapse, some experts suggested that Afghanistan might still be overwhelmed by their achievement of reaching their first-ever semi-final. They had previously defeated Australia, New Zealand, and Bangladesh in the tournament.

Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody commented on social media with "Emotionally hungover," hinting at the team's recent celebrations. Former England captain Michael Vaughan highlighted a logistical issue that may have affected Afghanistan's performance.

So Afghanistan qualify for the WC semi winning in St Vincent on Monday night .. 4 hr flight delay on Tues to Trinidad so no time to practice or get accustomed to a new venue .. utter lack of respect to players i am afraid .. #T20WorldCup2024

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 27, 2024

"When you have a 4-hour delay flight, it is not easy. Does not matter if you sleep 1 hour, you have to be at your best. We are going with the same lineup," Rashid had said at the toss.

Praise for South Africa's Bowlers

Sanjay Manjrekar praised South Africa's aggressive bowling and fierce spirit after they bowled out Afghanistan in just 11.5 overs. "My dream came true today. SA showing some real aggression & fierce spirit to go with their amazing skills!" he posted on X.

Dale Steyn also lauded South Africa’s pace attack by posting, "Proteas with the bit between their teeth! It's been destructive poetry in motion. Beautiful to watch."

Shamsi (3 for 6) and Jansen (3 for 16) were South Africa's top wicket-takers. Rabada (2 for 14) and Nortje (2 for 17) also contributed as Afghanistan recorded their lowest total in T20Is and T20 World Cup semi-finals.

The match highlighted both South Africa's dominant bowling performance and Afghanistan's struggle under pressure after an emotional high from previous victories.