Watch: Noor Ahmad laps stunner to dismiss gallant Glenn Maxwell during AFG - AUS Super 8s clash
The match appeared to be slipping out of Afghanistan's grasp until the 19-year-old leaped forward to dismiss the danger man.
The T20 World Cup 2024 continues to deliver breathtaking moments. Following several spectacular displays with fielders diving to secure remarkable catches, Noor Ahmad's grab of Glenn Maxwell stands out not only for its display of effort but more significantly for its critical timing and game-changing impact.
Before delving into the captivating moment, it's pertinent to set the stage: Australia, despite losing five wickets, appeared to have regained control, with 44 runs needed off the final six overs. While the pitch posed some challenges for the batters, Glenn Maxwell, displaying formidable prowess and seeming as if he had finally returned to his original self in terms of potency, partnered with Matthew Wade. Maxwell had already reached his 11th T20I half-century and seemed poised to steer Australia towards victory in a run-chase which came with its fair share of adversities.
Here's the video -
In the third over of Gulbadin Naib's spell, the fourth delivery proved pivotal for himself, the Afghan team, and particularly for Noor Ahmad stationed at backward point. Glenn Maxwell, batting at 59, attempted a powerful shot over square-cover but miscued it. Initially seeming like the ball might fall in front of Noor, he lunged forward and executed a spectacular diving attempt.
Despite bowling just one over that went for 11 runs, this catch would likely stand as one of the most memorable ones in Noor's career. Australia faltered after Maxwell's departure, managing only 21 additional runs and eventually succumbing to defeat by as many. This victory marked a historic first across all formats against the mighty Aussies, solidifying an unforgettable triumph for the pumped up Afghan squad.
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