West Indies vs Afghanistan LIVE Score, T20 World Cup 2024: Pooran, bowlers power WI to 104-run win

West Indies faced Afghanistan in a thrilling T20 World Cup 2024 match today, where Nicholas Pooran’s explosive 98 off 53 balls propelled his team to a formidable total of 218/5 at Daren Sammy National Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia. Subsequently, the West Indian bowlers dominated, securing a comprehensive 104-run victory over Afghanistan in their final group stage encounter.

Making his tournament debut, Obed McCoy made a significant impact by dismantling the Afghan middle-order with three wickets in as many overs. Spinners Akeil Hosein and Gudakesh Motie also played crucial roles, stifling Afghanistan’s batting lineup as they were bundled out for just 114 runs in 16.2 overs.

Despite an early setback with the loss of Brendon King, Johnson Charles and Nicholas Pooran launched a blistering assault, propelling West Indies to 92/1 during the powerplay, the highest powerplay score recorded in T20 World Cups. Although Afghanistan’s spinners slowed down the scoring in the middle overs, Pooran’s explosive finish ensured West Indies posted their highest-ever total in T20 World Cup history.

Earlier in the match, Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bowl first. Both teams had already secured qualification to the Super Eight stage, but this victory enabled West Indies to top Group C. Romario Shepherd missed the match due to the birth of his second child, with Obed McCoy filling his spot, while Shai Hope replaced Royston Chase. Afghanistan maintained an unchanged lineup for the match.