‘Sharam nahi aati kya inko?’ – Afghanistan outplay Pakistan in low-scoring match, earn final berth against India in Asian Games 2023

Pakistan and Afghanistan clashed against each other in the 2nd semifinal match of the T20 Men’s tournament in Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou on Friday, October 6. In a thrilling clash, the underdogs, Afghanistan’s cricket team showcased nerves of steel as they edged out Pakistan to secure their place in the finals of the tournament. 

Talking about the match, after winning the toss and electing to field first, the Afghan bowlers delivered a masterful performance, restricting Pakistan to a below-par total. Afghan bowlers kept their line and length tight which didn’t allow the Pakistan bowlers to open their hands. 

Omair Yousuf was the highest scorer for Pakistan scoring 24 runs while Fareed Ahmed was the highest wicket-taker for Afghanistan with 3 wickets. Chasing a target of 116 on a sluggish pitch, Afghanistan’s openers faced early setbacks, but Noor Ali Zadran emerged as a saviour with his aggressive approach. His timely boundaries kept the scoreboard ticking, even as wickets fell at regular intervals around him. However, he departed at a crucial stage after scoring 39 runs.

Brilliant finish by Gulbadin Naib

The turning point of the match came when Afghanistan’s skipper, Gulbadin Naib, took the crease. With a calm demeanour and an array of powerful strokes, he took the responsibility of guiding his team to victory by 4 wickets. Naib’s brilliant innings included a few big hits that tilted the balance firmly in Afghanistan’s favour. Naib 26 runs which included 3 sixes which helped him to seal the match.

What stood out was Afghanistan’s composure in a small run-chase. Despite the pressure, they remained focused on the task at hand, showing remarkable maturity for a team that has made tremendous strides in international cricket in recent years. With this hard-fought victory, Afghanistan has set the stage for an epic showdown in the finals against arch-rivals India. 

Cricket fans around the world are eagerly awaiting this clash, as both teams will vie for the coveted championship title. However, the semi-final match between Afghanistan and Pakistan will be remembered for its nail-biting moments, exceptional bowling, and Gulbadin Naib’s match-winning heroics. 

Here’s how fans reacted: