West Indies vs Afghanistan: Pooran’s quickfire fifty sets up a thrilling encounter

West Indies and Afghanistan clashed in a high-stakes encounter at the Daren Sammy National Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia, in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Afghanistan won the toss and decided to put West Indies to bat first. The West Indies team underwent a few changes, with Romario Shepherd making way for Obed McCoy, and Roston Chase being replaced by Shai Hope.

The West Indies XI featured Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell, Shai Hope, Sherfane Rutherford, Andre Russell, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, and Obed McCoy.

On the other hand, the Afghanistan XI included players like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Najibullah Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, and Fazalhaq Farooqi.

The match saw a brilliant start from the West Indies as Nicholas Pooran played a quickfire knock to bring up his fifty in just 31 balls. However, Afghanistan fought back with strategic bowling tactics.

Afghanistan managed to pick up crucial wickets, with Shai Hope departing after a quick cameo. Despite the setbacks, West Indies continued to push the score along steadily.

Throughout the course of the match, the players showcased exceptional skills, with performances from key players like Johnson Charles and Rashid Khan keeping the game intense till the end.