Australia sealed a spot in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 with a three-wicket win over Afghanistan at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Tuesday (November 8).

Chasing 292 to win, Australia were reeling at 91 for 7 before Glenn Maxwell produced an incredible double hundred to snatch the victory from jaws of defeat.

Despite struggling with cramps, Maxwell slammed 201* off 128 deliveries with 21 fours and 10 sixes to take Australia over the line in 46.5 overs.

Skipper Pat Cummins, who forged an unbroken 202-run partnership with Maxwell and returned with 12 not out off 68 balls, was at a loss for words to describe his teammate’s innings.

“Ridiculous. I don’t know how to describe it. Great win! It has got to be the greatest thing that has ever happened,” Cummins said at the post-match presentation.

“Maxwell was great, he was calm and always had a plan,” he added.

“It was one of those days people will say yeah, I was at the stadium for this game. Even from 200 behind to be able to win the game that way was really special. It is important to remember you can win from anywhere.”

“We had real belief in the team and we are in the semi-finals now, that’s great,” the Aussie captain further stated.

Maxwell battled cramps and fitness issues during his whirlwind knock but he stayed there till the end to seal the deal for Australia.

When asked if Maxwell wanted to retire hurt, Cummins said, “We had two NSW players lining up, Zampa was on and off three times, but Maxi wanted to stay out there.”

Despite the awe-inspiring victory, Cummins said Australia could have fared better in multiple facets of the game but added that would save the scrutiny for another day.

“Don’t think it is the time and the place, I’m going to pause on that. I think the toss is a bit tricky out here, the first 20 overs are key. There are things we could have done better,” he remarked.

On the other hand, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted that the team was disappointed to lose from a strong position but lauded Maxwell’s heroics.

“We are very disappointed. Cricket is a funny game, it was unbelievable for us. We were in the game, our bowlers started very well and the dropped chances hurt us.”

“After that, Maxwell didn’t stop, he played every kind of shot and I can give credit to him,” Shahidi said.

Maxwell got a few reprieves and made Afghanistan pay for it. No wonder, Shahidi rued the missed opportunities on the field.

“I think the dropped catches were the key, after that Maxwell played well. Our bowlers tried their best but he didn’t give us any chance.”

The Afghan skipper said he was proud of his team and also pointed out the uncertain nature of the sport.

“Proud of the team, but we will be disappointed tonight. We didn’t think it would be this way, but it is part of the game. This is cricket.”

Earlier, Afghanistan posted 291/5 on the board after opting to bat first, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran’s maiden World Cup ton (129* off 143).

“Ibrahim Zadran must be proud of himself, I am also proud that he is the first Afghan with a WC hundred,” Shahidi concluded.