On Tuesday, Afghanistan faced off against Australia in a crucial World Cup match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai knowing a win would put them firmly in the driving seat for an unprecedented top four finish.
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Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and chose to bat first. After meandering through the middle phase of their innings, a late overs boost from Rashid Khan helped them post an imposing 291/5, Afghanistan's highest-ever World Cup total.
The innings was held together, however, by opener Ibrahim Zadran's 129*, the third-highest individual score against Australia in World Cups.
Sachin Tendulkar effect! Ibrahim Zadran credits India legend after century against Australia
Zadran gave an interview to the World Cup broadcasters during the innings break after his knock. In it, he credited India legend Sachin Tendulkar for his advice. He said,
I had a good chat with Sachin Tendulkar; he shared his experience and I said before the match that I will bat like Sachin Tendulkar; he gave me a lot of energy and confidence.
Tendulkar lives in Mumbai, and a statue of the Little Master at the Wankhede Stadium had been unveiled prior to India's World Cup clash with Sri Lanka at the venue. He was at the stadium yesterday evening during Afghanistan's practice sessions, and spent some time interacting with the team.
MORE: Rashid Latif calls out Virat Kohli for his aggressive behaviour on the field
The interaction clearly had an effect on the 21-year-old Zadran, whose composed knock was the highlight of the first innings.
Sachin Tendulkar talking with the Afghanistan team at Mumbai.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 6, 2023
- This is a beautiful gesture by Sachin. pic.twitter.com/aZRbInCoOa
Who will win the 2023 World Cup?
India and Australia are among the favourites for the 2023 World Cup title. The odds from Dafabet are as follows.
| Team | Odds (Dafabet) |
|---|---|
| India | 2.00 |
| Australia | 4.50 |
| South Africa | 5.50 |
| New Zealand | 10.00 |
| Pakistan | 21.00 |
| Afghanistan | 67.00 |
Think you know who will win the 2023 Cricket World Cup? Place your bets here with Dafabet!
