In a breathtaking encounter Australia vs Afghanistan at Wankhede Stadium Mumbai, Glenn Maxwell led Australia to an incredible comeback, securing a thrilling victory against Afghanistan. The match, part of the ICC World Cup, seemed destined for an entirely different outcome, but Maxwell’s unbeaten double century rewrote the script and etched his name in cricket history.
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A Perilous Start for Australia
Australia’s chase began on shaky ground, losing seven wickets early in pursuit of Afghanistan’s target of 292 runs. With key players falling one after the other, including Travis Head, David Warner, and Marnus Labuschagne, Australia found themselves in a precarious position. It seemed like Afghanistan was well on their way to a historic victory.
Maxwell’s Heroic Intervention
Amid the crumbling Australian batting order, one man stood tall – Glenn Maxwell. He displayed unwavering determination and composure, even in the face of adversity. Despite suffering from a leg sprain, Maxwell blazed his way to an unbeaten double century, a remarkable feat that had never been achieved by an Australian in an ODI.
Maxwell’s innings included a staggering 21 boundaries and 10 colossal sixes, taking Australia from the brink of defeat to the threshold of victory. In the 47th over, Maxwell unleashed a breathtaking assault, smashing consecutive enormous sixes to seal the win and reach his double century. It was a performance that will be remembered as one of the all-time greats in ODI history.
Support from Captain Cummins
While Maxwell’s brilliance took center stage, his captain, Pat Cummins, played a crucial supporting role. Cummins remained unbeaten, scoring just 12 runs in 68 balls but providing the much-needed stability at the other end. Together, they formed an unbroken partnership that turned the match in Australia’s favor.
Naveen-ul-Haq and Omarzai’s Heroics
Afghanistan’s bowlers, Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai, had put Australia in a tight spot earlier in the game. They scalped wickets with precision, pushing Australia to a dire situation. Naveen’s outswingers and Omarzai’s inswingers created substantial problems for Australia’s top order. Even a drop catch by Rahmat Shah couldn’t deter their progress.
Maxwell’s Unforgettable Performance
As Maxwell faced Omarzai’s hat-trick ball in the ninth over, Australia was reeling at 49 for 4, and the odds seemed insurmountable. However, Maxwell’s resolve and determination knew no bounds. He defied all expectations and powered through, with Cummins steadfastly supporting him. Their incredible partnership paved the way for one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history.
Maxwell’s Cramps and the Final Assault
During his heroic innings, Maxwell faced yet another challenge – severe cramps. In the sweltering Mumbai heat, he experienced excruciating pain, particularly in his legs. Yet, he soldiered on, smashing sixes without moving his feet. His remarkable double century included 21 fours and 10 sixes, a testament to his sheer brilliance.
With just 21 runs needed from the final four overs, Maxwell unleashed a spectacular assault against Mujeeb Ur Rahman, hitting three consecutive sixes and a four. It was a breathtaking finish that not only secured Australia’s win but also saw Maxwell achieve his historic double century.
Historic Milestones
Maxwell’s 201* is not only the highest score by a batter at No. 6 or lower in ODIs but also marks the first double-century by an Australian in ODI cricket. This incredible performance will be etched in cricketing history for generations to come.
Australia vs Afghanistan Match Conclusion
Glenn Maxwell’s extraordinary double century against Afghanistan stands as a testament to the spirit of cricket. In the face of adversity, he displayed unwavering determination, skill, and sheer brilliance, leading Australia to an astonishing victory. This historic innings will be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in the history of the sport, showcasing the magic and unpredictability of cricket.
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