West Indies put up a strong batting show and powered their way to a total in excess of 300. Barring Gayle, all their top batsmen performed and the century partnership between Pooran and Holder provided the real impetus at the death.
In the chase, Afghanistan lost their skipper early but the 133-run stand between Ikram Ali Khil and Rahmat Shah kept on track. Both played delightfully and till the time they were in, Afghanistan was in with a chance.
Chris Gayle has the match ball in his hand as he waves to the crowd. This is the last world cup for the big man. Plenty of smiles and hugs. He has always been a likable character and is loved all over the world for his unique style.
Even towards the end of this chase, their lower order batsmen put up a spirited show and narrowed down the defeat margin.
Jason Holder | West Indies Captain:
Says it was good to get over the line. Mentions that they have had some close encounters in this tournament but he is happy they got over the line today. States the batters set the tone and 300 was a good total.
Further adds they did not start as they wanted with the bat but they kept on building partnerships and finished strongly. Admits they were inconsistent in all the three departments throughout the tournament and they need to get a lot more consistent.
He congrats Chris Gayle and says he has done leaps and bounds for West Indies’ cricket. Finishes with a word of praise for Ian Gould who is also in his last World Cup.
Gulbadin Naib | Afghanistan Captain:
Says they did finish with a good score but at once it did look like they will win the game. Credits the way Rahmat Shah and Ikram played.
Further adds that Ali Khil, who is very young, played very well but it is not only him and they have a lot of good youngsters back in Afghanistan. Hopes they keep getting stronger. Further adds he has learned a lot from this World Cup.
Ends by saying that fitness is a big issue for them and they need to improve. Also wants his team to learn how to handle pressure and keep working on their skills.
SHAI HOPE | Man Of The MATCH:
Says it was important they get that score on the board. Feels that Afghanistan have some decent spinners and it was necessary for them to have the launching pad heading towards the end. States he is not very happy with his performance in this World Cup but hopes he can go from strength to strength. Ends by saying he is happy he finished on a high and hopes to carry it in the next series.
The second wicket stands Afghanistan tried to maintain the same intensity through Najibullah Zadran and Asghar Afghan but they failed to bat longer and the batsmen who followed fell in a heap. After an ordinary beginning with the ball, West Indies picked themselves up and tightened the screws.
Kemar Roach was the best bowler for them in terms of control while Carlos Brathwaite with a 4 wicket haul and was the most successful bowler for the Caribbean team. Chris Gayle also bowled some tidy overs and he got the prized scalp of Ali Khil.
