T20 World Cup: India, Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh semi-final chances explained after Aussies lose to Afg
Afghanistan pulled off a monumental 21-run upset over Australia in the T20 World Cup, with Gulbadin Naib’s four-wicket haul overshadowing Pat Cummins’ hat-trick. Afghanistan defended their total of 148 for six, securing their first-ever win over Australia in international cricket. Australia were bowled out for 127 in 19.2 overs in the Super Eight contest, now facing potential early elimination from the World Cup. They must win against India and hope Afghanistan loses to Bangladesh. Afghanistan avenged their ODI World Cup defeat in Mumbai, where Maxwell had previously snatched victory from them. Skipper Rashid Khan expressed immense pride in the team's performance, highlighting Naib’s impactful bowling and Nabi’s early dismissal of Warner.
The result has thrown Group 1 wide open, with both Australia and Afghanistan having one win each, while India leads with two wins. The final Super Eight matches will be crucial in determining which teams advance to the semi-finals, with all four teams in Group 1 still having a chance to make it through.
What are India's chances for making to the semis
With 4 points from two matches and net run rate of 2.425, India is in a strong position to reach the semi-finals, but a loss to Australia in their final Super Eight match could jeopardize their chances. A victory over Australia will secure the top spot in Group 1, but a defeat might allow both Australia and Afghanistan to surpass them if Afghanistan wins against Bangladesh. India bolstered their semi-final prospects with a dominant performance against Bangladesh, securing two wins out of two in the Super Eight stage.
