India beat Bangladesh in a very close Group 2 encounter of the 20-20 World Cup 2022 on Wednesday. The star-studded Indian team is on track to qualify for the semi-finals, having won three out of their four games already. Meanwhile, former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has accused the Apex Cricket Council of being ‘unfair’ and ‘supportive’ of India.
While speaking to Samaa TV, Afridi said that the Apex Cricket Board wants to ensure that India makes it to the semi-finals at any cost. He also blamed the umpires for supporting India in their matches against Pakistan and Bangladesh.
“You saw the ground how wet it was. But ICC is inclined towards India. They want to ensure India reaches the semi-finals at any cost. The umpires were also the same who officiated India vs Pakistan & will get the best umpire awards,” he said.
Reactions from across the border poured in following India’s five-run victory over Bangladesh in a rain-shortened match on Wednesday. India batted first and scored 184/6 in 20 overs. Bangladesh got off to a strong start in the chase, with Litton Das scoring a 21-ball half-century. The rain stopped play after Bangladesh reached 66/0 in seven overs. As play resumed after a brief rain delay, Bangladesh was set a revised target of 151 in 16 overs.
They would have won the match: Shahid Afridi on Bangladesh
“Given the amount of rain that happened, the game resumed immediately after the break. It is very evident that many things were involved, the ICC, India playing (the game), the pressure that comes with it, there are many factors involved. But Litton’s batting was amazing. He played positive cricket. After six overs, we felt that if Bangladesh didn’t lose wickets for another 2-3 overs, they would have won the match. Overall, the fight shown by Bangladesh was brilliant,” Afridi further added.
Meanwhile, India will advance to the semifinals if they defeat Zimbabwe on Sunday. Pakistan, on the other hand, must defeat Bangladesh while also defeating either India or South Africa.
