Afghanistan Youth cruises to the semi-final of Ramadan Cup

Afghanistan Youth Cricket Association (AYCA) have reached the semi-final of the Dr. M.A Shah Lephone trophy, also known as the Ramadan Cup.

AYCA bounced back from losing their opening match by beating Malir Gymkhana by five wickets with four balls to spare. Chasing a small target of 94, Mohammad Shahzad scored 45 and Mohammad Nabi 20 to help edge AYCA over the line.

Despite that win, AYCA had to win against Mullakatiar Cricket Club to qualify for the quarter-finals. In truth AYCA needn’t have worried as they were facing a very bad side. AYCA racked up an enormous 204 runs in 20 overs. Mohammad Nabi produced an eye-catching innings, regularly smashing sixes into the crowd and sometimes even out of the ground. In Reply Mullakatiar were bowled out for a meagre 57 runs in 15 overs. Samiullah Shenwari picked up five wickets – including a hat-trick.

With tow wins in a row, AYCA were in the quarters against Pakistan Cricket Club (PCC). PCC won the toss and elected to bat, however they could only manage a small total of 92 runs. AYCA had no problems chasing this down, winning with eight wickets and five overs to spare. Mohammad Nabi was top-scorer with 31.

AYCA will play in the semi finals either with Pak Korangi or Korangi Al Fatah on Saturday. AYCA will undoubtably be cheered on by thousands of their fans – as they have been in every match they have played so far.