Afghanistan bowled out Kenya for a mere 93 runs in 43.3 overs with spinners Hamza Hotak, Mohammad Nabi and Karim Sadiq sharing seven wickets

Afghanistan will he heading to Australia and New Zealand in 2015 after qualifying for their maiden 50-over World Cup by finishing second in the World Cricket League Championship on Friday.

The war-torn country beat Kenya by seven wickets at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium to join Ireland as the second Associate team in the Feb. 14-March 29 tournament.

Opting to field after winning the toss, Afghanistan, who have played in the last two Twenty20 World Cups, bundled out Kenya for 93 and romped home with seven wickets to spare.

It was a dream come true for captain Mohammad Nabi, who shone for his team with his two wickets for 10 runs and an unbeaten 46.

"I can't express my feelings. It is a very big day in my life. I'm sure there will be huge celebrations back home," Nabi told the International Cricket Council (ICC) website.

"I'm happy for the people of Afghanistan and look forward to playing in Australia and New Zealand.

"I didn't expect to play in a World Cup when I started playing cricket. But now I can cherish this moment and look forward to playing against the best sides in some of the best playing facilities.

"Playing in a World Cup will be one grade up and we'll try to work hard and do better."

Afghanistan will be grouped in Pool A with Australia, Bangladesh, England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and another qualifier.

HELP FROM NEIGHBOURS

ICC Chief Executive David Richardson congratulated Afghanistan on their success and said they would prove to be a thorn in the side of the more established teams.

"Afghanistan's journey has been a remarkable one," Richardson said. "It started in World Cricket League division five in 2008, and will now make its maiden appearance at the ICC's flagship 50-over event.

"Afghanistan is a talented team who will prove a competitive opponent for any team that comes up against it."

... contd.

ALSO READ Seamers put Karnataka in driving seat

Please read our terms of use before posting comments