Glenn Maxwell showcased a breathtaking display of skill and determination, guiding Australia to an astonishing three-wicket victory over Afghanistan as well as to the semi finals of the World Cup that giving one after another spectacular display for the fans.
Maxwell, battling through cramps, exhibited an extraordinary performance, smashing an unbeaten 201 off 128 balls at the floodlit Wankhede Stadium.
Initially, Afghanistan appeared poised for a historic win against the five-time champions, reducing Australia to a precarious 91 for seven wickets after setting a challenging target of 292 runs.
However, Maxwell, accompanied by captain Pat Cummins, embarked on a sensational counter-attack.
Together, they surpassed Afghanistan’s total of 291 for five wickets with 19 balls to spare, forming an unbroken eighth-wicket partnership of 202 runs. Maxwell’s innings, characterized by 21 fours and 10 sixes, was a display of sheer determination and skill, with many of his shots executed on one leg due to his cramps.
Despite suffering from physical discomfort, Maxwell persevered, adapting his game by minimizing running between the wickets and relying on powerful hits.
His remarkable innings included a crucial double century, sealed with a six in the final moments.
Afghanistan’s bowlers, despite their efforts and strategic meetings on the field, found no way to dislodge Maxwell, who was given a lifeline on 33 when he was dropped by Mujeebur Rahman off Noor Ahmad’s bowling.
Additionally, Maxwell survived an lbw decision, successfully overturning the umpire’s call on appeal, further frustrating the Afghan team.
Earlier in the match, Afghanistan’s opening batsman Ibrahim Zadran had set the stage with a maiden World Cup hundred, scoring an unbeaten 129 from 143 balls. Zadran’s innings, embellished with eight fours and three sixes, provided Afghanistan with a competitive total. All-rounder Rashid Khan contributed with an unbeaten 35 off 18 balls, including three sixes and two fours, towards the end of the innings.
