KATHMANDU: Afghanistan’s cricket team showcased a commanding performance against Uganda in their second Group C encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers.

After a solid batting display, Afghanistan’s bowlers ensured a comprehensive victory at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

Afghanistan’s Explosive Start

Winning the toss and opting to field first, Uganda’s captain Brian Masaba aimed to restrict Afghanistan to a manageable total.

However, Afghanistan’s opening pair had different plans. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran capitalized on favorable batting conditions, propelling Afghanistan to a flying start.

Gurbaz led the charge with an aggressive approach, while Zadran soon followed suit, hitting four consecutive fours in the sixth over.

By the end of the powerplay, Afghanistan had amassed 66 runs, scoring at an impressive 11 runs per over.

Gurbaz brought up his maiden T20 World Cup half-century in the ninth over, featuring four sixes and two fours. The duo’s remarkable 100-run stand set a solid foundation for a high total.

Uganda’s Fightback

Uganda struggled with discipline, exemplified by a costly 25-run over from Bilal Hassan, which included five no-balls and five wides, propelling Afghanistan past the 150-run mark.

Nonetheless, Uganda’s bowlers mounted a spirited fightback in the death overs. Masaba finally broke the partnership, cleaning up Zadran with a delivery that stayed low.

Alpesh Ramjani and Masaba continued to apply pressure, picking up key wickets and conceding just 22 runs for three wickets in the final four overs.

Despite this, Afghanistan posted a formidable total.

Afghanistan’s Bowlers Dominate

Chasing a challenging target, Uganda’s innings faltered from the outset.

Fazalhaq Farooqi delivered a sensational opening over, dismissing Ronak Patel and Roger Mukasa off consecutive deliveries.

Although he narrowly missed a hat-trick, with Riazat Ali Shah surviving by a whisker, Farooqi’s efforts gave Afghanistan a dream start.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman soon joined the fray, removing Simon Ssezai for 4, leaving Uganda reeling at 8/3.

Steady Contributions

While Uganda’s middle-order attempted to stabilize the innings, Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained a tight grip.

Experienced campaigner Rashid Khan, leading the side, applied relentless pressure with his variations.

Gulbadin Naib and Karim Janat contributed with crucial breakthroughs, ensuring Uganda never recovered from their early setbacks.

Conclusion

Afghanistan’s comprehensive performance, combining a powerful batting display and incisive bowling, led to a commanding victory over Uganda.

The win bolstered Afghanistan’s position in Group C, as they aim to continue their impressive form on the global stage.

Uganda, on the other hand, will look to regroup and make the most of their remaining opportunities in the tournament.

Playing XIs:

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

Uganda: Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Ronak Patel, Riazat Ali Shah, Dinesh Nakrani, Alpesh Ramjani, Robinson Obuya, Brian Masaba (c), Bilal Hassan, Cosmas Kweyuta, Henry Ssenyondo

This second Group C match followed the opening encounter where hosts West Indies defeated Papua New Guinea by five wickets, setting the stage for a competitive qualifying round.