Mohammad Nabi Nearly Matches Yuvraj Singh’s Historic Feat with Five Sixes in One Over After 18 Years
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi delivered a breathtaking performance in Afghanistan’s crucial Asia Cup Group B match against Sri Lanka at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium. The 40-year-old’s explosive innings of 60 runs off just 22 balls, featuring five sixes in a single over, helped Afghanistan recover from a precarious position to post a competitive total of 169/8. This remarkable display came just before the anniversary of Yuvraj Singh’s famous six-sixes feat in the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, adding a poetic touch to Nabi’s heroics.
Nabi’s Late-Game Heroics
Afghanistan’s innings appeared to be in jeopardy as they struggled at 120/7 after 18 overs. Nuwan Thushara’s exceptional bowling had dismantled their top order, leaving the team in a dire situation. However, Nabi turned the tide with a stunning assault in the final overs. He scored an astonishing 46 runs in the last two overs, including a staggering 32 runs off the final over bowled by Dunith Wellalage. This late-game surge not only salvaged Afghanistan’s innings but also set them up with a total that would challenge Sri Lanka.
Nabi’s partnership with skipper Rashid Khan, who contributed 24 runs, was crucial. Their 35-run stand was the highest of the innings. Despite being dropped once in the deep, Nabi capitalized on the opportunity, hitting three consecutive boundaries off Chameera and reaching his fifty in just 20 balls, marking the joint-fastest T20I fifty for Afghanistan. His innings made him the second player over 40, after Chris Gayle and Mohammad Hafeez, to score a T20I fifty against a full-member side.
Afghanistan’s Struggles Before the Surge
The match began with Afghanistan starting strong, scoring 26 runs in the first two overs. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Thushara’s incisive bowling dismantled their batting lineup. He took three quick wickets, leaving Afghanistan at 45/3. The Sri Lankan fielders showcased their skills, with Kusal Perera executing a sharp relay catch and Dushmantha Chameera pulling off a stunning grab, further stifling Afghanistan’s scoring.
Rashid Khan attempted to counter the Sri Lankan attack with a few boundaries, including a no-look six off Dasun Shanaka, but he too fell victim to Thushara’s bowling. As the innings progressed, Afghanistan’s chances of posting a competitive score seemed bleak until Nabi’s explosive performance turned the game around. His ability to find the boundary consistently in the final overs was a game-changer, allowing Afghanistan to finish with a respectable total.
Sri Lanka’s Bowling Breakdown
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, led by Nuwan Thushara, initially dominated the match. Thushara’s impressive figures of 4 wickets for 18 runs showcased his ability to dismantle the Afghan batting order. His early strikes set the tone for Sri Lanka, putting Afghanistan on the back foot. However, the turning point came in the final overs when Dunith Wellalage faced the brunt of Nabi’s onslaught.
Wellalage’s over became one of the most expensive in T20I history, as he conceded 32 runs, marking the second-highest total ever allowed in a single over for Sri Lanka. This costly over not only impacted the match’s outcome but also highlighted the importance of maintaining composure under pressure. Despite the late surge from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka will need to regroup and strategize for their upcoming matches in the tournament.
Implications for Afghanistan’s Campaign
Nabi’s remarkable innings has not only revived Afghanistan’s hopes in the Asia Cup but also reignited their aspirations of reaching the Super Fours. The team’s ability to recover from a challenging position demonstrates their resilience and fighting spirit. With Nabi leading the charge, Afghanistan has shown that they can compete against formidable opponents.
As the tournament progresses, Afghanistan will look to build on this momentum. Nabi’s performance serves as a reminder of the potential within the team, and they will aim to harness this energy in their upcoming matches. The Asia Cup remains a critical platform for Afghanistan to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.
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