In how many overs do Bangladesh need to chase down Afghanistan’s 115 to qualify for 2024 T20 World Cup semifinals? 

Bangladesh are still in contention for a semifinal spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup along with Australia and Afghanistan in Group 1 of the Super 8. Despite losing to India and Australia by considerable margins, Najmul Hossain Shanto and company can play in the knockout stage if they overcome the net run rate margin with a win in the ongoing clash against Afghanistan.

The Bangladeshi bowlers put in an impressive display to restrict their subcontinent rivals for 115 runs at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St.Vincent. Before the contest, Bangladesh had zero points with a net run rate of -0.2489. However, if they beat Afghanistan, then the two teams along with Australia will be level with two points each, and the net run rate will come into play.

To go past Australia's -0.331 figure, Bangladesh will have to chase down the target in 12.1 overs or hit a six inside 12.4 overs when the scores are level. A win, irrespective of the margin, will be enough to take Afghanistan into the semis as they will have four points in that scenario.

In the four matches played at the venue so far, the teams batting first have won every time. Afghanistan had secured their famous win over Australia at the same venue by defending 149 while Bangladesh also defended 106 runs against Nepal in the group stage.

Bangladesh make a lively start to the run chase

Rain delayed the start of the run chase in St.Vincent, but it was only a brief interruption as play resumed without any overs being lost. Litton Das hit two consecutive boundaries in the first over off Naveen-ul-Haq to show Bangladesh's intent.

Afghanistan have responded with a wicket off the next over. Left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi struck with the new ball to trap Tanzid Hasan LBW.

As of writing, Bangladesh are placed at 18-1 after two overs in the run chase, with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto joining Das at the crease.

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