Australia secure semi-final spot with record-breaking comeback
Australia pulled off a miraculous comeback against Afghanistan in an exciting match at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai. After Ibrahim Zadran became the first-ever centurion for Afghanistan in World Cup history, Australia chased down 292 runs with Glenn Maxwell playing the innings of a lifetime.
Australia had a disastrous start to their chase, being at 91 for 7 at one stage. But then Maxwell stepped up and smashed a record-breaking 201 not out, with an unbeaten 202-run partnership with his captain Pat Cummins. His innings was described as one of the greatest ODI innings of all time, scoring 201 runs off just 128 balls, including 21 fours and 10 sixes.
Maxwell, who was battling cramps and struggling to move his legs, continued to hit sixes until he brought home the Australian miracle. Bravely batting through the pain, he turned the game around and secured Australia’s place in the semi-finals.
Afghanistan’s bowlers made a strong attempt to defend their total, particularly Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai, who damaged Australia’s top order. However, Maxwell’s sensational innings proved too much for them to handle.
Ibrahim Zadran and Rashid Khan’s impressive partnership had pushed Afghanistan to a competitive 291 for 5, but Australia’s jaw-dropping comeback left them heartbroken.
Maxwell showed resilience and determination, turning the game around and securing Australia’s place in the semi-finals of the World Cup. His performance and persistent effort earned him a well-deserved place in cricket history.