Afghanistan cruised to a massive victory against newcomers Uganda in their World Cup opener on Tuesday. The team set an imposing target of 184, thanks to a formidable 154-run opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran.
Fazalhaq Farooqi then dismantled Uganda’s batting lineup with extraordinary figures of 5/9 in his four overs. Farooqi made an immediate impact with two wickets in his first over, and only a resilient block by Riazat Ali Shah prevented a hat-trick.
In the 13th over, Farooqi bowled a deceptive slow cutter that clean-bowled Riazat, bringing captain Brian Masaba to the crease.
Masaba faced a wide seam-up delivery and attempted an aggressive shot, but only managed a thick outside edge, which was comfortably caught by Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Farooqi, having maintained disciplined lines and lengths throughout the match, was amused by earning a wicket from such a loose delivery. He laughed and hid his face in his palm.
— Jackson Hernandez (@JHernandez9286) June 4, 2024
Despite the quality of the delivery, Farooqi’s performance received widespread acclaim on Twitter, with fans celebrating his efforts and praising the pacer.