Glenn Maxwell hit one of the greatest innings in history to help Australia beat Afghanistan by three wickets in the 39th match of the 2023 World Cup on Tuesday (November 7) at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and chose to bat first. Opener Ibrahim Zadran (129) anchored his side to a respectable score of 291/5 in 50 overs. Rashid Khan (35*) cameoed in the end and gave the finishing touches.
Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai bowled superbly with the new ball and swung it both ways, causing an Australian batting collapse. The Australians were reduced to 91/7 in 18.3 overs and appeared to be in trouble. Glenn Maxwell, the sole recognized hitter, had a handful of reprives in the following overs.
Those lost opportunities cost Afghanistan dearly as Glenn Maxwell took full advantage of the lifelines and produced an innings of a lifetime to lead Australia to a thrilling victory. Glenn Maxwell went on a tear, slamming 10 sixes and 21 fours on his way to 201* (128) to propel his team home in the chase.
Social media users who follow cricket enjoyed Tuesday’s thrilling match between Afghanistan and Australia. They posted funny memes on social media to express their feelings.
Here is a list of the top ones:
Cummins hails Glenn Maxwell’s 201* as the best ODI innings ever
Australia skipper Pat Cummins remarked on the come-from-behind triumph during the post-match presentation, saying:
“I mean just ridiculous. I don’t know how you describe that knock. It’s gotta be the greatest ODI innings that has ever happened. Feel very lucky to be here and witnessing this. Maxwell keeps doing these things. He was calm and whenever we are chasing he has a fan. Even from 200 behind he still mapped me about how to chase this down. We had two NSW coming up. Zamps were on and off two three times but Maxi wanted to stay out there.
“I think, it’s important. The opposition looks at that as well. Its important how to map a run chase. It’s great getting into the semi-finals. I don’t think, its the time and the place but yeah the toss played a big part. Both teams played very well but in the end, Maxi was just exceptional.”
Pat Cummins
After India and South Africa, Australia is the third side to reach the semi-finals.