Guyana, Guyana – Afghanistan wasted no time announcing their presence in the ICC T20 World Cup with a resounding victory. They thrashed debutants Uganda by a commanding 125 runs in their opening group-stage match at the Guyana National Cricket Ground.

Set a daunting target of 184, Uganda’s batting lineup crumbled under the pressure. Only Robinson Obuya (14 runs) and Riyazat Shah (11 runs) managed double-digit scores as the Afghan bowling attack ran riot. The show’s star was left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqui, who ripped through the Ugandan batting order with a phenomenal five-wicket haul for nine runs in a mere four overs. Captain Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq chipped in with two wickets, while Mujeeb Ur Rahman grabbed one to complete the demolition.

After an exciting start, having lost the toss and being put into bat, Afghanistan posted a formidable 183 runs on the board. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (76 runs off 45 balls) and Ibrahim Zadran (70 runs off 46 balls) laid the foundation for a mammoth total with a magnificent 154-run partnership. Gurbaz’s knock was laced with four boundaries, while Zadran showcased his power-hitting with a six to accompany his nine fours. The thrilling innings of Mohammad Nabi, unbeaten with 14 runs, provided a late flourish to the Afghan innings. Uganda’s bowlers, despite the challenge, put up a valiant effort, with captain Brian Masaba and Cosmas Kyuta managing two wickets each and Alpesh Ramzani taking one.

This emphatic victory sets a strong tone for Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup campaign, while Uganda will be looking to learn from their experience and bounce back in their next match.