xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling Super 8 clash at the 2024 T20 World Cup, Afghanistan's Rashid Khan emerged as the hero against Bangladesh, guiding his team to the semi-finals. However, the match also highlighted the intense pressure and emotions that even the best players experience.

Read More: ICC T20 World Cup 2024: David Warner retire from all format of International cricket after Australia’s exit!

The pivotal moment occurred during Afghanistan's batting, with the team reeling at 93-5 and only 14 balls left. Rashid Khan, having already hit two sixes, was determined to maximize every run. On the third ball of the last over (19.3), Rashid's shot towards the cover region seemed like an opportunity for two runs. Yet, teammate Karim Janat's refusal to attempt the second run left Rashid furious. Mid-pitch, Rashid expressed his frustration by throwing his bat towards Janat before scrambling back to his crease.

Despite the tension, Rashid's resilience shone through. Regaining strike the next ball, he finished the innings with another six, boosting Afghanistan's total to a defendable 115. His quickfire 19 off 10 balls was crucial in setting a challenging target for Bangladesh.

Read More: ICC T20 World Cup 2024: How England pokes fun at Team India ahead of semi-final? Find out

Needing a win to secure their first-ever semi-final spot in a major ICC tournament, Afghanistan faced a tough chase from Bangladesh. But Rashid Khan, demonstrating his all-round prowess, turned the game around with the ball. He took four crucial wickets, dismantling Bangladesh's middle order and leading Afghanistan to a narrow 8-run victory via the DLS method.

With this victory, Afghanistan booked their place in the semi-finals, where they will face South Africa on June 27 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad. A win there could see them competing in the final against either India or England, marking a historic achievement for Afghan cricket.