In an extraordinary display of resilience and skill, Glenn Maxwell led Australia into the semi-finals of the World Cup with a monumental double-century against Afghanistan.
Maxwell’s incredible innings of 201 runs off 128 balls left spectators in awe and propelled Australia to a thrilling victory over Afghanistan with 19 deliveries to spare.
This remarkable performance by Maxwell is now etched in the annals of Cricket World Cup history as one of the most astonishing innings ever witnessed.
Facing a target of 292, Australia had stumbled to a precarious 91-7 before Maxwell’s heroics pulled his team back into contention, carrying them to a total of 186-7.
Maxwell’s superhuman effort, however, almost came to an end when he was on 33. He was given a second life when Mujeeb Ur Rahman dropped a straightforward catch at short fine leg.
This missed opportunity proved costly for Afghanistan, as Maxwell went on to score a half-century in just 51 balls, eventually reaching his century with 10 fours and three sixes.
His unbeaten innings was nothing short of sensational, featuring 21 boundaries, including the final six that dramatically sealed the win for Australia.
Australia’s chase had gotten off to a shaky start, losing early wickets as Naveen-ul-Haq made inroads into their top order.
Travis Head was dismissed early, and Mitchell Marsh’s attacking approach was curtailed by an exceptional delivery from Naveen. Australia had lost four wickets with just 49 runs on the board.
However, their fortunes took a remarkable turn thanks to Glenn Maxwell’s exceptional batting. He demonstrated his remarkable temperament and extraordinary skills to anchor the innings and guide Australia to a thrilling victory.
In the first innings, Afghanistan’s 21-year-old Ibrahim Zadran made history by becoming the first Afghan batter to score a World Cup century against Australia.
His unbeaten knock of 129 off 143 balls helped Afghanistan post a respectable total of 291 for 5. Zadran displayed composure and class in his innings, showcasing his fitness and talent.
He struck eight fours and three sixes, guiding Afghanistan to a competitive total. Azmatullah Omarzai contributed with a quick 22 off 18 balls, injecting some momentum into Afghanistan’s innings.
In the end, Rashid Khan’s explosive 35 not out off 18 balls added valuable runs to Afghanistan’s score. Despite the spirited effort, Glenn Maxwell’s phenomenal double-century secured a thrilling victory for Australia and secured their place in the World Cup semi-finals.
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