Afghanistan’s Cricket Team Is On The Verge Of Winning A World Cup Semifinal Spot Tonight—Despite Boycott Threats

The Afghan men's national cricket team will have the chance to secure a historic semi-final slot at the ongoing Twenty20 World Cup on Monday and knock out one of the sport’s biggest dynasty teams, despite facing upheaval and boycotts by top international teams after the Taliban’s takeover of the country in 2021.

In a tournament littered with several high-profile upsets, including a surprise U.S. run, the Afghan team pulled off the biggest one in their sporting history on Saturday night when they beat former world champions and pre-tournament favorites Australia in the World Cup’s Super-8s round.

Afghanistan will take on Asian rivals Bangladesh on Monday night, and they need a win to give themselves a strong chance of qualifying for the semis. Before they take the field, however, the Afghan team will hope the Indian team wins its game against Australia on Monday morning or have the game washed out.