Pooran’s Explosive Knock Propels Unbeaten Windies into Super 8 with Dominant 104-Run Victory Over Afghanistan
The West Indies, propelled by a dazzling performance from Player of the Match Nicholas Pooran, triumphed over Afghanistan by 104 runs to secure the top spot in Group C and advance to the Super Eight stage of the ICC T20 World Cup with an unblemished record.
Pooran blazed his way to 98 off 53 balls, setting a world record by scoring 36 runs off the 4th over bowled by Azmatullah Omarzai, as the Windies amassed a formidable 218 for 5. This was the highest total for West Indies in men’s T20 World Cups.
Pooran, who struck eight sixes, surpassed Chris Gayle to become the leading six-hitter for West Indies in T20Is.
The Trinidadian shared a second-wicket partnership of 80 runs with opener Johnson Charles, who smashed 43 off 27 deliveries. The former two-time champions racked up 92 runs for the loss of one wicket in their first six overs, the highest powerplay score in men’s T20 World Cup history.
Contributions from Captain Rovman Powell (26) and Shai Hope (25) further bolstered the Windies’ total, while Gulbadin Naib was Afghanistan’s standout bowler, taking 2 for 14.
In reply, Afghanistan lost a wicket without scoring in the first over and were eventually bowled out for 114.
Ibrahim Zadran top-scored with 38, while Obed McCoy spearheaded the Windies bowling with 3 for 14. Akeal Hosein (2-21) and Gudakesh Motie (2-28) also claimed wickets, with Andre Russell and Alzarri Joseph taking one each.
With this victory, West Indies secured the top spot with a perfect 8 points from 4 games, while Afghanistan finished second with 6 points.
Final scores: West Indies 218 for 5, Afghanistan 114.
The outcome, however, did not affect the Super Eight seedings, which were pre-determined, with both teams already assured of their spots. West Indies join Group 2 alongside co-hosts United States, South Africa, and defending champions England. Group 1 includes Afghanistan, India, Australia, and Bangladesh.
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