Afghanistan beat two-time world champions West Indies by 3 wickets in ICC WC Qualifiers

New Delhi: Afghanistan rode on a valiant 68-run knock by Rahmat Shah and a fine display of spin bowling to beat two-time world Cup champions West Indies by 3 wickets in Super Six stage of the ICC World Cup qualifiers at Harare.
After losing two wickets early at the top, it was the three important stands of 66, 50 and 22 that pulled Afghnaistan to victory. Though, the script was similar in both innings with contributions from the middle-order, Afghanistan’s effort proved to be a little better which took them towards an important win. Afghanistan collected their first win in the Super Six stage to keep their campaign alive. They will have to keep winning every game from here to strengthen their chances.
After the early stutter, Shah held fort and stitched an important 66-run stand with Samiullah Shenwari. The duo had laid a strong platform for Afghaistan but Shenwari’s departure once again gave Windies a chance to bounce back.
Come the experienced Mohammad Nabi. Having played the leagues around the world, Nabi showed his batting talent and nudged his way to a 50-run stand alongside Rahamat.With that Afghnaistan in close range of distance but Shimron Hetmyer pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss Nabi at deep square leg. Afghanistan were 132/4 in the 36th over.
West Indies combined again to put the oposition under pressure as they conceded just 18 runs in the next five overs. Sensing an urge to accelarate the scoring, a set Shah then made his way back, leaving Afghnaistan in danger. Shah made 68 in 109 balls.
Thanks to small contributions with the bat from Rashid Khan, Najibullah Zadran at the lower order that staved off the danger and scaled the target with 14 balls to spare.