T20 World Cup 2024: 'Beautiful Story' - Twitter Reacts After Afghanistan Seal Semi-Final Spot

Add as a preferred source on Google

From ex cricketers to fans - Twitter reacted after Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by 8 run (DLS method) in the final Super 8 match to seal the last semi-final spot of the T20 World Cup 2024 on Monday (June 24).

Defending a paltry 115 which was later reduced to 114 in 19 overs due to rain delay, Afghanistan bundled out Bangladesh for 105 at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

And with that result, Afghanistan reached the last four of any World Cup for the first time and in the process also knocked out Australia from the tournament. Australia's defeat to India earlier in the day had given Afghanistan a huge boost before the match.

However, when they posted just 115, many would have felt that it was impossible for them to defend, but Rashid Khan's side never gave up and continued their fairytale run, leading to congratulatory messages from the cricketing world.

Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle took to social media to state "always improving" Afghanistan's fight to reach the semi-final should inspire everyone and called their journey as a beautiful story.

"Afghanistan's magical march to the semi-final of the #ICCT20WorldCup should be a source of inspiration to everyone. They are always getting better, their players playing the leagues everywhere, playing with belief and pride. It is a beautiful story," Bhogle posted on X.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif said it's a historic day for Afghanistan cricket, adding they are no longer one game wonders as they've been consistently beating big teams.

"Historic day for Afghanistan, first time in semis. They are no longer a team that plays one good match. They are consistently beating big teams and also winning tight games like today. Afghanistan, what a story," Kaif posted on X.

Australia cancelled their series against Afghanistan earlier, but former India opener Wasim Jaffer drew example of some of the boards' treatment to India and indicated soon the red carpets will roll even for the Afghans.

"Aus used to invite Ind once every 10 years; Eng used to get Ind Tests out of the way in early part of the season. Same boards now lay out the red carpet for Ind. Same thing is going to happen with Afg. Cricket world will have to give Afg the respect they deserve," Jaffer posted on X.

Another former India batter Robin Uthappa congratulated Afghanistan and highlighted the roles played by skipper Rashid Khan and pacer Naveen-ul-Haq, who were crucial in pulling off the win over Bangladesh.

"What a win for Afghanistan!! Kudos to @rashidkhan_19 for leading from the front. Brilliantly led and bowled!! Special mention to Naveen-ul-Haq for holding his nerves and delivering a spectacular spell! Congratulations, Afghanistan!!" Uthappa said on X.

Former Pakistan pacer Umar Gul said Afghanistan's passion and perseverance to never give up at any time shows anything is possible as he wished Rashid & Co best of luck for the semis.

"Congratulations to the Afghanistan cricket team on reaching the semi-finals! Your hard work, dedication, and remarkable performances have inspired fans around the world. You've shown that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. Best of luck 4 the semi-final. keep making history!" Gul posted on X.

Afghanistan will next face unbeaten South Africa in the semifinal on Wednesday (June 26) at the Brian Larca Cricket Academy Ground in Tarouba, Trinidad & Tobago.