WC 2023: Sensational Maxwell stuns Afghanistan. When Afghanistan faced off against Australia in today's World Cup match in Mumbai, spectators were in for an unexpected thrill. Afghanistan, after winning the toss, opted to bat first, displaying their characteristic calm and composed approach.
The Afghanistan batsmen rallied around opener Ibraham Zardan, who delivered a magnificent unbeaten century, amassing 129 runs from 143 balls. Their determined efforts culminated in a competitive total of 291/5 within the allotted 50 overs. Many anticipated an easy victory for Australia, but Afghanistan had a surprise in store, stunning all observers with their remarkable performance against the Australian batsmen.
Before Australia could fully comprehend the situation, they found themselves struggling at 91/7, with Maxwell and Captain Pat Cummins left as the last recognized batting pair. However, what followed left everyone in awe. Maxwell unleashed his merciless side, taking full advantage after a straightforward catch was dropped by Mujib when he had just reached 31 runs. From that moment on, Maxwell ruthlessly dispatched the Afghan bowlers out of the park.
What truly spoke volumes about Maxwell's innings was that he was visibly cramping and found it difficult to run. Yet, he steadfastly refused to leave the pitch and continued his brutal assault on the Afghanistan bowlers. In the end, Australia secured a nail-biting victory, winning the match by three wickets with 13 balls to spare.
Maxwell's performance was nothing short of historic, as he scored the fastest double century in One Day International history, reaching 201 runs in just 128 balls, including 21 fours and 10 sixes. Pat Cummins, the team's captain, played a crucial supporting role by scoring 12 runs from 68 balls. Maxwell's innings ranks among the best not only in World Cup history but also in the annals of One Day cricket. What sets Maxwell's knock apart is that he achieved a double century while chasing a target, marking the first instance of such a feat in this format, all while battling physical discomfort. This remarkable innings also marked the first time Maxwell played 100 balls in a single match in his career.