New Delhi: In a heart-stopping match, Afghanistan narrowly missed a chance to bolster their Cricket World Cup semi-finals aspirations, with Australia's Glenn Maxwell delivering a one-man show. Despite Australia being at 91/7 while chasing a target of 292, Maxwell's unbeaten 201 orchestrated one of the most incredible run-chases in tournament history. Partnering with captain Pat Cummins, who contributed 12 runs off 68 balls, Maxwell's heroic stand proved pivotal.
Maxwell battled severe cramps, limping between the wickets, and scored 144 of his 201 runs with 21 fours and 10 sixes. Despite contemplating retirement at 147, he persevered, leading Australia to their sixth consecutive win after losing the first two matches. While Australia celebrated, Afghanistan's three-match winning streak ended, setting up a challenging final group game against South Africa.
Qualifying Conundrum: Can Afghanistan Make it to the Semi-Finals?
With New Zealand and Pakistan still vying for the last semi-finals slot, a victory against the already-qualified Proteas might not suffice for Afghanistan. Currently tied with Pakistan at eight points, New Zealand leads both on points and net run rate. Afghanistan faces the daunting task of significantly improving their net run rate to surpass New Zealand.
The Steep Climb: Afghanistan's Net Run Rate Challenge
Afghanistan, Pakistan, and New Zealand all have eight points from as many games. However, Afghanistan's net run rate is inferior, necessitating colossal wins for a shot at the semi-finals.
As Pakistan gears up to face England on November 11 and Afghanistan confronts South Africa on Friday, the odds are stacked against Afghanistan. With a net run rate at -0.338 compared to New Zealand's +0.743, Afghanistan not only needs a victory against South Africa but must also achieve an improbable shift in net run rate to outpace the Kiwis.
The race to the semi-finals intensifies, leaving Afghanistan with a formidable challenge and fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of these crucial final group stage matches.
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