AUS vs AFG: Tempers flare between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Marcus Stoinis in St Vincent thriller - Watch Video

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AUS vs AFG: Tempers flared between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Marcus Stoinis as Australia and Afghanistan produced a thrilling encounter in the Super 8 Group 1 match at the Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent on Sunday, June 23.

Australia were in need of just a win to seal a berth in the semi-finals alongside India, however Afghanistan had other plans. Australia needed 149 to win, but Afghanistan fought hard and avenged their Wankhede defeat at the World Cup 2023 by bundling out Australia for 127.

The floor for the historic win was set by Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who top-scored for his team with 60 off 49 on a pitch not very easy to bat. His opening wicket stand for 118 runs with Ibrahim Zadran (51) was one of the biggest factors why Afghanistan won and kept their semi-finals hopes alive.

Frustrated because of the partnership, Stoinis was seen having a go at Gurbaz in the 16th over. After going 15 overs without any wicket, Stoinis said something to Gurbaz, who played the ball straight towards the Australia pacer while trying to make some room to drive the ball on the off side on the second ball of the 16th over.

Gurbaz replied with a six over the cow corner, and then a double before ending up giving a catch to David Warner at deep square leg. Marcus Stoinis gave a send-off to Stoinis by pointing towards the dressing room with two flapping hands.

Later in the second innings, Gurbaz returned the favour as soon as Stoinis walked in the middle after the fall of third Australia wicket in the powerplay. The wicket-keeper sledged Stoinis even before he could take his guard.

In the 11th over, Stoinis top-edged a Gulbadin Naib delivery as Gurbaz took a solid catch after running backwards. He let out a massive roar after he completed the catch.

The big wicket of in-form Marcus Stoinis was one of the turning points of the match. Australia were soon reduced to 85/5 in 12.2 overs. Afghanistan did not even allow Australia to bat 20 overs, and completed a 21-run win on the second ball of the final over.