World T20: Minnows Afghanistan shock high-flying West Indies

Nagpur: Minnows Afghanistan on Sunday scripted history as they defeated 2012 champions West Indies by 6 runs in their final group league encounter of the ICC World Twenty20 here to sign off on a memorable note.

West Indies failed to surpass a target of 124 as the Associate nation were able to restrict them to 117 for eight.

The defeat does not change anything in final equations as West Indies have already qualified for the semi-finals and also maintained their pole position in the table. They will play their semi-final in Mumbai.

The story of the day, however, was all about the talented Afghan boys, who have impressed one and all with their spirited display so far in the tournament.

After a string of close losses, the Afghans kept their calm on today to beat a much-fancied West Indies side, who looked formidable even in the absence of Chris Gayle. There were emotional scenes all around after Afghanistan completed the formalities, prompting West Indian star Chris Gayle, who was rested from today's game, to congratulate them and even pose for pictures with the victorious team.

Afghanistan scored 123/7 in 20 overs after being put into bat. Najibullah Zadran's 40-ball-48 studded with four boundaries and a six was the reason for them reaching a fighting total after being down at 56 for five.

In reply, the Afghan bowlers maintained a disciplined line and length. It was heartening to see skipper Asghar Stanikzai toss up the ball to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi with West Indies needing 10 runs off the last over.