T20 World Cup 2024: West Indies vs Afghanistan - A Comprehensive Victory
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 has witnessed some thrilling cricketing action, and the match between West Indies and Afghanistan on June 17 was no exception. Played at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, the West Indies showcased their dominance with a commanding 104-run victory, cementing their place at the top of Group C and advancing to the Super Eight stage with an undefeated record.
The Toss and Team Line-Ups
West Indies won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that would soon prove advantageous.
The Toss and Team Line-Ups
West Indies won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that would soon prove advantageous.
West Indies XI:
- Johnson Charles
- Kyle Mayers
- Nicholas Pooran
- Rovman Powell (c)
- Shai Hope
- Odean Smith
- Jason Holder
- Akeal Hosein
- Romario Shepherd
- Alzarri Joseph
- Obed McCoy
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Hazratullah Zazai
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi (c)
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Rashid Khan
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
West Indies set the stage with an explosive batting performance, amassing a formidable 218/5 in their 20 overs. Nicholas Pooran was the standout performer, narrowly missing a century with his blistering 98 runs off 55 balls. Johnson Charles also made a significant contribution with a quickfire 43, while Shai Hope and Rovman Powell chipped in with 25 and 26 runs respectively. The team set a new record for the highest powerplay score in T20 World Cup history, reflecting their aggressive and effective batting strategy.
Afghanistan's Response
In their chase, Afghanistan struggled to find momentum against a disciplined West Indies bowling attack. Ibrahim Zadran top-scored with 38 runs, and Azmatullah Omarzai added 23 runs, but no other batsman managed to make a significant impact. The West Indies bowlers were relentless, with Obed McCoy leading the way with 3/14. Spinners Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie each took two wickets, ensuring Afghanistan were bowled out for 114 runs in 16.2 overs.
Key Performances
- Nicholas Pooran (West Indies): Pooran's 98 off 55 balls was the backbone of the West Indies' imposing total, featuring powerful hitting and strategic placement.
- Obed McCoy (West Indies): McCoy's 3/14 was pivotal in dismantling Afghanistan's batting lineup, making him the pick of the bowlers.
- Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan): Zadran's 38 was a lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting display for Afghanistan.

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