Afghanistan have achieved a historic milestone by securing a spot in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

The team, led by Rashid Khanconfirmed their advancement with a decisive 7-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea (PNG) at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad, on Friday.

Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup history

Notably, Afghanistan have shown steady progress in the T20 World Cup over the years. In 2016, they made their debut in the Super 10s. The team continued to improve, reaching the Super 12s in both the 2021 and 2022 editions. This year’s achievement marks the first time Afghanistan has made it to the Super 8 stage, underscoring their growing prowess in international cricket.

Dominance in Group C

Afghanistan’s performance in Group C has been outstanding.

They started with a commanding 125-run victory over Ugandafollowed by a crucial win against New Zealandwhich effectively knocked the Black Caps out of the tournament. Their latest triumph against PNG not only secured their top spot in Group C but also highlighted their consistent form and strategic superiority.

Rashid Khan on Afghanistan’s victory

Captain Rashid expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and credited his players for their dedication and skill.

He emphasized the significance of Afghanistan reaching the Super 8 stage for the first time.

“It has been great so far. Three wins in a row. Great to be at the table where we finished. We finished well in the last game as well, but I think the credit goes to the boys. They took responsibility with both the bat and ball, but yeah, I think it’s huge for us. You know, we just the first time for us being in the Super Eight in T20 World Cup,” said Rashid while speaking in a video posted by the ICC on their social media.

Rashid Khan reveals the team’s superstar

Rashid also revealed who is the superstar in the team.

He singled out Fazalhaq Farooqi for his exceptional performance and disclosed that they often call the left-arm pacer as the superstar. Notably, Farooqi played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s success against PNG, taking 3 wickets for just 16 runs and earning the Player of the Match award.

“Well, I think he’s a superstar for us. We call him Superstar the way he has performed for us, and it’s so good to see him back in form. He was a little bit struggling before, but I think you know that’s something which gives us so much base, a strong base where he started with the ball and gives a couple of breakthroughs,” added Rashid.