Afghanistan began their T20 World Cup campaign with an emphatic 125-run victory over debutants Uganda in Guyana. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran set the tone with a 154-run opening partnership, the second-highest in T20 World Cup history. Gurbaz’s 76 off 45 balls and Ibrahim’s 70 off 46 balls propelled Afghanistan to 183 for 5.
The Afghan openers blasted 18 boundaries in the first 14 overs, with Gurbaz hitting four sixes and Ibrahim adding a six and nine fours. However, a late collapse saw Afghanistan lose 5 for 31 in the final six overs, with Uganda’s captain Brian Masaba and fast bowler Cosmas Kyewuta taking two wickets each.
Uganda’s spirited comeback restricted Afghanistan’s final total, with no boundaries conceded in the last six overs. Despite the strong start, Afghanistan’s middle and lower order struggled, showcasing Uganda’s potential in their World Cup debut.
In response, Uganda’s batting crumbled under the pace attack of Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq. Farooqi’s maiden five-wicket haul in T20Is dismantled Uganda, who were bowled out for a mere 58 runs in 16 overs. Farooqi’s first over set the tone, taking two wickets consecutively and leaving Uganda reeling. Naveen and captain Rashid Khan supported with two wickets each, sealing Uganda’s fate.
Riazat Ali Shah and Robinson Obuya offered some resistance with a 29-run partnership, but Farooqi’s return spell ended their hopes. Farooqi’s five-for included crucial wickets, including Uganda’s top scorer Obuya. Rashid wrapped up the innings, taking the last two wickets consecutively.
Afghanistan’s commanding performance highlighted their potential to be a global powerhouse, while Uganda will look to build on their promising bowling effort in future matches.
