West Indies beat Afghanistan by 104 runs
Introduction
The T20 World Cup 2024 witnessed a spectacular display of batting prowess from the West Indies as they cruised to a resounding 104-run victory over Afghanistan in their final Group C match. Led by the exceptional performance of Nicholas Pooran, the two-time champions showcased their batting might, amassing an impressive total of 218/5 in their 20 overs. In response, the Afghan side struggled to keep up with the scoreboard pressure and were eventually bowled out for just 114 runs, sealing a comprehensive win for the West Indies.
West Indies Batting Masterclass
The West Indies cricket team opted to bat first after winning the toss, and their decision paid off handsomely. Opener Johnson Charles got the innings off to a brisk start, scoring a quickfire 43 runs off just 26 deliveries. Shai Hope and skipper Rovman Powell also made valuable contributions, scoring 25 and 26 runs, respectively.
However, the star of the show was undoubtedly Nicholas Pooran, who put on a batting masterclass. The wicketkeeper-batsman unleashed a flurry of boundaries, hitting 8 towering sixes and 6 fours in his blistering 53-ball 98. Pooran’s onslaught included a particularly brutal over, where he plundered 36 runs off Azmatullah Omarzai’s bowling, including 5 wides, 5 no-balls, and 4 boundaries.
Record-Breaking Innings
Pooran’s incredible knock propelled the West Indies to a formidable total of 218/5, the highest ever scored by the two-time champions in a T20 World Cup match. This innings also marked the joint-most expensive over in T20 International cricket history, underlining the sheer dominance of the West Indian batters.
Afghans Succumb to Scoreboard Pressure
In response, the Afghan side found themselves struggling to keep up with the daunting target set by the West Indies. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz was dismissed in the very first over, and the rest of the batting lineup failed to find their rhythm.
Ibrahim Zadran top-scored for Afghanistan with a valiant 38, but the relentless pressure exerted by the West Indian bowlers proved too much for the opposition. Gudakesh Motie and Obed McCoy were the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 and 3 wickets, respectively, as Afghanistan cricket team were bowled out for just 114 runs in 16.2 overs.
Pooran’s Remarkable Feat
The standout performer of the match was undoubtedly Nicholas Pooran, who not only scored a sensational 98 runs but also surpassed Chris Gayle as the West Indies’ most prolific six-hitter in T20 Internationals. Pooran’s incredible display of power-hitting and his ability to dominate the opposition bowling attack were the key factors that propelled the West Indies to their convincing victory.
Implications for the Super 8s
With both teams already assured of a Super 8 berth, this match served as a dress rehearsal for the upcoming knockout stage. The West Indies will now face England in their Super 8 Group 2 match, while Afghanistan will take on India at Barbados.
Skipper’s Reaction
West Indies skipper Rovman Powell was elated with his team’s performance, acknowledging the hard work and preparation that went into their dominant display. “We knew here will be one of the better wickets of the competition. After Guyana and Trinidad, the batters wanted to come here and get runs. (Pooran) I think it is on the back of hard work. He has had a very good 12 months. Good to see him score runs not only in franchise cricket but also for WI,” Powell said in the post-match presentation.
Afghanistan’s Perspective
Despite the heavy defeat, Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan remained positive, stating that the loss would not affect their preparations for the Super 8 stage. “Don’t think so (this big loss will affect us). We’ve achieved what we wanted – to get Super Eight. The different pitches coming up… we’ll adjust to them. Good learning this loss happened at this stage, not in a do-or-die game. We take the positives with us, like fielding and middle-overs bowling,” Rashid said.
Pooran’s Innings Dissected
Reflecting on his match-winning performance, Pooran emphasized the importance of assessing the conditions early on and taking responsibility in the middle overs. “You don’t want to be on 97 and get run-out but it was all about reaching a respectable total. I assessed the conditions early on, we had a good start in the powerplay, I had to take the responsibility in the middle overs with the Afghanistan spinners bowling,” the ‘Player of the Match’ said.
West Indies’ Batting Dominance
The West Indies’ batting display in this match was a testament to their depth and versatility. The team’s ability to post a mammoth total of 218/5, the highest in the tournament so far, showcased their prowess with the bat and their ability to adapt to different pitch conditions.
Afghanistan’s Bowling Woes
The Afghan bowling unit, which had been effective in their previous matches, struggled to contain the West Indian batters. Gulbadin Naib’s 2/14 was the only bright spot, as the rest of the bowlers were unable to find a way to slow down the run-scoring.
Implications for the Super 8 Clash
The dominant victory over Afghanistan has undoubtedly boosted the West Indies’ confidence as they prepare to face England in their Super 8 Group 2 match. The team’s ability to perform under pressure and their batting firepower will make them a formidable opponent for the English side.
Conclusion
The T20 World Cup 2024 clash between the West Indies and Afghanistan was a one-sided affair, with the two-time champions emerging victorious by a massive 104-run margin. Nicholas Pooran’s sensational batting display, which included a record-breaking over, was the highlight of the match and showcased the West Indies’ batting prowess. As both teams look ahead to the Super 8 stage, the West Indies will be brimming with confidence, while Afghanistan will aim to regroup and bounce back stronger.
