No longer the ‘minnows’, Afghanistan pulled off an upset of epic proportions as they shocked Australia by 21 runs in the T20 World Cup 2024. Thanks to Gulbadin Naib’s four-wicket haul, Afghanistan nullified Australia skipper Pat Cummins’ hat-trick, producing one of most memorable days in Afghan cricket. As fans and cricket experts took to social media to share reactions on the big upset in T20 World Cup, Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq shared a cryptic post,targeting the critics of his team, as well as the lack of support. Naveen took to social media to lambast the lack of support his team got during tough times, in comparison to the greetings it is getting now. Afghanistan defended their total of 148 for six for their first-ever win over Australia in international cricket. Australia were all out for 127 in 19.2 overs and they are now staring at early elimination from the World Cup. Australia now must win their match against India on Monday and also hope that Afghanistan lose to Bangladesh in their next match. Afghanistan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60) and Ibrahim Zadran (51) forged a 118-run partnership setting up base for a challenging total but Pat Cummins registered his second successive hat-trick spread across two overs to restrict Afghanistan to a manageable total. “Massive win for us as a team and as a nation. Great feeling. It’s something we missed in last two years. Really happy with the win and super proud of the guys.
Quite important for us that we went back with the same playing XI.
We’re reading the opposition bowling lineup and selecting XI accordingly. 140 was a good total on this wicket. We didn’t finish as well as we should have. Opening partnership gave us best start. On this wicket, anything 130-plus, we were capable of defending it as long as we kept calm and had the belief. “That’s the beauty of this team, having allrounders and having options. The way Gulbadin bowled today – the experience he has, it came good today. The way Nabi started – the wicket of Warner – was also pleasing to see. It’s so important for us back home and around the world. I’m sure they’re proud and would’ve enjoyed the game,” Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan said after the game.
Thanks to the win, Afghanistan remain alive in the T20 World Cup 2024, giving their T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final hopes a big boost.
In a historic moment for Afghan cricket, Naveen-ul-Haq has not only made headlines with his exceptional performance but also set social media ablaze with a poignant post following Afghanistan’s stunning victory over Australia. The young cricketer’s heartfelt message has resonated deeply, marking a watershed moment in the nation’s cricketing history. Afghanistan’s triumph over Australia in the ICC tournament has been nothing short of spectacular. Defying all odds, the team led by Asghar Afghan and inspired by the remarkable performances of players like Naveen-ul-Haq has captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Naveen-ul-Haq’s pivotal role in the victory, both with the ball and in the field, showcased not only his cricketing prowess but also his resilience and determination. After the match, Naveen-ul-Haq took to social media to express his emotions. His post, crafted with humility and gratitude, reflects the journey of Afghanistan cricket and its growth on the global stage. “This victory is not just ours but belongs to every Afghan who has dreamed of this moment,” he wrote, encapsulating the collective spirit of a nation that has embraced cricket as a unifying force amidst challenges. The impact of Naveen-ul-Haq’s words was immediate and profound. Across platforms, fans and commentators alike hailed his maturity and sportsmanship. His post resonated deeply within Afghanistan and beyond, symbolizing the triumph of hope over adversity and the power of sport to transcend barriers.
For Afghanistan, a country where cricket has emerged as a source of national pride and resilience, this victory carries immense significance.
It underscores the progress made by Afghan cricket in recent years and reinforces its status as a formidable contender on the global stage. Naveen-ul-Haq’s performance and subsequent message have further galvanized support for the team, inspiring a new generation of cricketers and uniting a nation behind a common cause. As the celebrations continue and Afghanistan prepares for its next challenges in the tournament, Naveen-ul-Haq’s words serve as a reminder of the values that define the sport: integrity, perseverance, and the ability to inspire. His post-match reflection stands as a testament to the transformative power of cricket in Afghanistan and its capacity to bring joy and pride to millions. In the annals of Afghan cricket, this victory and Naveen-ul-Haq’s contribution will be remembered not just for their sporting significance but for the emotions they stirred and the hope they ignited. As Afghanistan continues to write its cricketing saga, Naveen-ul-Haq’s post will remain a poignant chapter, illustrating the indomitable spirit of a team and a nation on the rise.
