The fate of Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup journey rests precariously on the fickle hands of the weather in St. Vincent. As Afghanistan faced Bangladesh at the Arnos Vale Ground on Tuesday, the tension was palpable, with three teams in Group 1 still vying for the coveted semifinal spots.
Bangladesh, electing to field first, saw Afghanistan struggle to find their rhythm. However, a late surge from captain Rashid Khan propelled them to a modest 115/5 in their allotted 20 overs. But just as the innings concluded, the skies above Kingstown opened up, unleashing a torrent of rain that sent ground staff scrambling to cover the pitch.
The fate of the match, and Afghanistan’s World Cup aspirations, now hinge on the mercy of the weather. If the rain persists, a no result would be declared, awarding both teams a point each. This outcome would be a blessing in disguise for Afghanistan, as it would propel them to the semifinal with a total of three points.
Currently, Australia sits in Group 1 with two points after suffering defeats against both Afghanistan and India. A single point for Afghanistan in this rain-affected encounter would catapult them over Australia in the standings, guaranteeing a semifinal showdown against South Africa.
As the rain falls in Kingstown, Afghanistan fans anxiously await the weather’s verdict, hoping for a rain-free window to allow their team to secure a place in the T20 World Cup semifinals.
