Afghanistan earn famous victory over West Indies

Afghanistan made cricket history on Sunday when they beat former champions West Indies in a thrilling six-run victory in the ICC World Twenty20.

Although the West Indies opted to field, it was the minnows who restricted their opponents to 117-8 on a turning wicket after Najibullah Zadran's 48 off 40 balls had earlier anchored them to 123-7.

The result had little bearing on the West Indies topping Group 1 over England thanks to a better net run-rate, but it was undoubtedly a special moment for the Afghan side. The result was Afghanistan's first win in the competition and ruined the West Indies' hopes of finishing the group with a 100 percent record.

After brave performances against England, Sri Lanka and South Africa, Afghanistan knew they had a chance against the former champions, according to coach Inzamam-ul-Haq. He said: "We knew we could defend the total after watching low scoring games here in Nagpur. Our spinners were fantastic today and the fielding was simply outstanding."

Although Afghanistan could not qualify for the semi finals of the competition, captain Asghar Stanikzai hailed his side's ability to finish their run in the tournament with a victory and had learnt "so much" from the competition despite three defeats in four games.

"We knew the conditions but the bowlers and fielders played very well,” he said. “We know about our team's strengths. We have experienced so much at this WT20."

sb/jh (AFP, AP)