Rain threat looms over Afghanistan vs Bangladesh T20 World Cup quarter-final

Rain threatens to disrupt crucial T20 World Cup match between Afghanistan and Bangladesh, determining Australia's fate in the semi-finals. #T20WC

As the match teeters on the edge of uncertainty and Australia's destiny hangs in the balance, the focus shifts to the unpredictable weather conditions.

The T20 World Cup clash between Afghanistan and Bangladesh is currently being drenched in a torrential downpour in St. Vincent. The stage is set for a nail-biting finish as rain threatens to disrupt the crucial match, with Australia's slim hopes of reaching the semi-finals dependent on the outcome.

Australia, with only one victory in the group stage, finds themselves in a precarious position. Their only chance of advancing lies in Bangladesh chasing down Afghanistan's target of 116 runs in more than 12.1 overs - a seemingly unlikely scenario that would see the former champions sneak into the final four with a negative net run rate.

In this scenario, Afghanistan would secure a spot in the T20 World Cup semi-finals, knocking out both Bangladesh and Australia in the process. If the match is abandoned due to rain or a wet outfield, each team would receive one point, placing Afghanistan above Australia in Group 1 and securing their place in the semis.

However, the situation could change dramatically if rain shortens the game. If Bangladesh can chase down the target in less than 12.1 overs, their superior net run rate would propel them to their first-ever T20 World Cup semi-final appearance.

The current heavy rainfall during the Bangladesh innings adds another layer of uncertainty to the equation. A complete washout would eliminate both Australia and Bangladesh, granting Afghanistan a semi-final spot with a single point from the abandoned match.

Earlier in the match, Afghanistan posted a total of 115/5 after winning the toss. Openers Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz laid a solid foundation with a 50-run partnership, a historic achievement in the T20 World Cup. However, Bangladesh's bowlers fought back, slowing the run rate and taking crucial wickets just as Afghanistan needed to accelerate.

With the match hanging in the balance and Australia's hopes on the line, all eyes are on the weather. Will the rain subside to allow for an exhilarating chase, or will it wash away the dreams of two teams and pave the way for an unexpected semi-finalist? Only time will reveal the answer.