In light of the Netherlands’ unexpected victory against South Africa earlier in the day, Pakistan and Bangladesh both knew that a victory would guarantee them a berth in the tournament’s semifinals.
Pakistan ultimately advanced to the last four when paceman Shaheed Afridi took four victims to secure a five-wicket victory with 11 balls remaining.
However, Bangladesh had every reason to feel resentful given that they were put in a difficult situation throughout their innings.
After deciding to bat first after winning the toss, Bangladesh looked strong as they easily passed 70 runs for the cost of just one wicket. However, Pakistan handed them a twin punch by dismissing Soumya Sarkar and Shakib Al Hasan in quick succession.
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However, Shakib was declared out LBW in very contentious circumstances despite the fact that the umpire and DRS both agreed he was struck on the foot in front of the crease, leaving Shakib fuming about his golden duck.
The ball had a large spike seen on the ultra-edge of the replays when it was close to Shakib’s bat and before it struck the batsman’s foot.
Despite certain views appearing to clearly reveal a space between the ground and Shakib’s bat’s bottom, the third umpire determined that the hyper edge spike was caused by the hitter striking the ground rather than a ball edge.
After receiving his orders, Shakib couldn’t believe it and stood in the middle of the field in shock for a while after his wicket was confirmed.
As fans vented their disgust over the decision on social media, Isa Guha said on Fox Cricket, “He should feel well aggrieved after this one.”
After the dispute, Bangladesh never truly bounced back as Pakistan’s fast Afridi destroyed the underdogs.
At Adelaide Oval, Pakistan easily reached 5-128 with 11 balls remaining as Bangladesh limped to a meagre 8-127 to to Afridi’s 4-22.
Following their victory, Pakistan will play New Zealand in the semifinals at the SCG on Wednesday night. India and England will play in the other semifinal at Adelaide on Thursday night.