India A's journey in the 2024 Emerging Asia Cup concluded with a 20-run defeat against Afghanistan A in the semi-finals, held in Al Amerat on October 25. Chasing a target of 207 runs, India A struggled to gain momentum throughout their innings, despite a spirited effort from Ramandeep Singh.
Afghanistan A set a solid foundation with a powerful start, thanks to openers Zubaid Akbari and Sediquallah Atal. Akbari scored a rapid 64 runs off 41 balls, while Atal provided stability with an impressive 83 runs off just 52 deliveries, forming a substantial 121-run partnership. Their efforts propelled Afghanistan A to a competitive total. Rasikh Salam stood out for India A, taking 3 wickets for 25 runs, effectively keeping Afghanistan's score within reach.
In their chase, India A's batting lineup began promisingly with openers Abhishek Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh. However, the momentum shifted quickly after Abhishek's dismissal, followed shortly by Prabhsimran, leaving India A in a precarious position at 66 for 2. Afghanistan A's bowlers, particularly Allah Ghazanfar (2/14) and Abdul Rahman (2/32), exploited this opening, dismantling the middle order and preventing India from forming any substantial partnerships.
Ramandeep Singh entered the fray and provided a glimmer of hope with his fighting spirit. However, despite his efforts, Afghanistan A's disciplined bowling in the death overs, spearheaded by Abdul Rahman and Karim Janat, proved too much for the lower order. India A ultimately fell short, unable to chase down the target.
Afghanistan A's victory not only secures them a place in the final against Sri Lanka A but also highlights their clinical bowling performance that capitalized on India's faltering middle order. With this win, Afghanistan A moves forward with confidence, aiming to clinch the Emerging Asia Cup title.
