Chennai, Feb 19 (NationPress) Opening batsman Ibrahim Zadran played a remarkable innings, scoring an unbeaten 95—marking his second consecutive half-century—as Afghanistan set a total of 200/4 in 20 overs against Canada during their concluding Group D match of the Men’s T20 World Cup at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday.

After being invited to bat first in what turned out to be Jonathan Trott's final game as head coach, Afghanistan started steadily. However, Canada made a comeback in the sixth over when pacer Jaskaran Singh took two quick wickets, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Gulbadin Naib within four balls.

Zadran then took control of the innings, forming a strong partnership with Sediqullah Atal that yielded 95 runs off 59 balls for the third wicket. Zadran achieved his second successive fifty of the tournament, while Atal contributed 44 runs off 32 balls before falling in the 16th over.

After being dropped on 54 by Canada’s Navneet Dhaliwal, Zadran seized the opportunity to guide Afghanistan to a total of exactly 200 in a 56-ball innings that included seven fours and five sixes, boasting a strike rate of 169.64. This marks the first time Afghanistan has reached a score of 200 in the tournament's history.

Canada's bowling performance was mixed, with Jaskaran Singh finishing with figures of 3-52 and Dilon Heyliger taking 1-41. Afghanistan's total presents a significant challenge for Canada as they aim to conclude their campaign on a high note.

Afghanistan raced to 49 runs during the power-play, but their momentum faltered when Gurbaz, who looked in great form, tried to push for more runs and got out, while Naib was dismissed by a full delivery.

Despite these setbacks, Zadran remained composed and found a reliable partner in Atal. The duo combined calculated risks with elegant stroke play. Atal, who hit seven boundaries in his 44, was dismissed in the 16th over while attempting to accelerate, but the innings had already been solidified.

Zadran capitalized on the chance given by Dhaliwal at 54, playing a variety of shots to keep the scoreboard moving. His innings showcased a blend of patience and power, as well as the ability to adapt during the middle overs, ensuring Afghanistan stayed focused on achieving a lofty total.

Although Canada had moments of control, their lines and lengths faltered under pressure in the final overs. Afghanistan took full advantage, scoring 69 runs in the last five overs, with Zadran leading the charge and setting the scene for an exciting second innings.

Brief scores: Afghanistan 200/4 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 95 not out, Sediqullah Atal 44; Jaskaran Singh 3-52, Dilon Heyliger 1-41) against Canada