In a thrilling T20 World Cup match on February 12 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Afghanistan pushed South Africa to the limit but ultimately lost two crucial points.
The match was full of excitement right up to the end. Afghanistan needed just two runs from the final three balls but lost Fazalhaq Farooqi, who was run out while attempting a double. They were bowled out for 187, matching South Africa’s first-innings score.
After two Super Overs, South Africa claimed victory, leaving Afghanistan with two defeats at the start of their T20 World Cup journey. To advance to the Super Eight stage, Rashid Khan’s team must win their next two matches and rely on other results.
Jonathan Trott, Afghanistan’s head coach, expressed pride in his team’s effort against South Africa as his tenure nears its end. He noted the ups and downs have been a constant theme during his time with the team, but emphasized the need for positivity despite the challenges.
“I think that was a great snapshot. I’d prefer to talk about it (his time in charge) when it’s done than talk about it now. We’ve still got two important games and I respect the side and the job, but also the two games we’ve got coming up are important as well. I don’t think it’s time to start talking about when I’m not in the position when I am still in the position. I’d like to make sure I get that right and that we get it right. Hopefully this group can surprise a few people and we get a few losses somewhere along the line and we get ourselves back in. We’ve got to stay positive,” Trott said in the post-match press conference.
