The 16th match of the T10 World Cup 2026 delivered high drama at the Adelaide Oval, where Australia edged past Afghanistan by just 2 wickets, sealing victory with 4 balls remaining in a tense, low-scoring encounter.
Batting first, Afghanistan posted 104 runs before being bowled out in 9.2 overs. After early setbacks, Najibullah Zadran (24 off 11) and Azmatullah Omarzai (22 off 10) provided brief momentum. However, the real spark came from Fareed Ahmad, who played a sensational cameo of 30 off just 10 balls*, lifting Afghanistan past the 100-run mark. Australia’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Cameron Green (3 wickets) and Mitchell Starc (2 wickets) keeping the pressure constant.
In reply, Australia’s chase began shakily as wickets fell in clusters, keeping Afghanistan firmly in the contest. David Warner’s 28 off 15 balls offered early intent, but regular breakthroughs from Fareed Ahmad (3 wickets) and Rashid Khan (2 wickets) pushed Australia to the brink. With the equation tightening, Sean Abbott rose to the occasion, smashing an unbeaten 26 off 9 balls, while Cameron Green provided calm support at the other end. Their composure in the final overs proved decisive as Australia reached 105 for 8 in 9.2 overs.
Despite the loss, Afghanistan earned widespread praise for their fearless bowling and fighting spirit, pushing a top side to the limit. Australia, meanwhile, walked away with two crucial points but were left with clear lessons about handling pressure in tight T10 chases as the tournament intensifies.