ICC World Cup 2023 Live Streaming: How to Watch Australia vs Afghanistan | Match 39

• Controversy over Australia vs. Afghanistan match in ICC 2023.
• Semifinal spot at stake in this crucial clash.
• Watch live on TV or online.

In the midst of the exhilarating ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, fans around the globe are gearing up for a high-stakes clash between Australia and Afghanistan in Match 39. Scheduled to take place at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium, this encounter has been shrouded in controversy and debate, with allegations of “double standards” stirring the cricketing world.

The controversy ignited when Afghanistan’s talented fast bowler, Naveen-ul-Haq, took to social media to express his concerns about Cricket Australia’s decisions. Naveen questioned the perceived inconsistency in Cricket Australia’s actions, pointing out their decision to scrap a three-match one-day international (ODI) series against Afghanistan while continuing with a World Cup match. In an Instagram post, he remarked, “Refusing to play the bilateral series, now it will be interesting to see Cricket Australia stand in the World Cup #standards #human rights or 2 points.”

Cricket Australia’s decision to abandon the bilateral ODI series in March was rooted in the Taliban’s imposition of restrictions on women’s rights, which included limiting education and employment opportunities for women, including female cricketers. This decision to participate in a crucial World Cup match has generated a substantial amount of debate. Australia’s star player, Steve Smith, weighed in during a press conference, acknowledging the complexity of the issue by saying, “It’s far above my pay grade.”

Cricket Australia has defended its stance, emphasizing the distinction between playing bilateral series under their control and participating in an ICC (International Cricket Council) event, such as the World Cup, which is subject to ICC regulations.

As this heated debate rages on, the upcoming World Cup match holds immense significance for both sides. Afghanistan, a rising cricketing nation, remains in contention for a spot in the semifinals, having won four of their seven pool matches. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi stressed the importance of focusing on the game ahead.

Australia, a five-time champion, is in a tight spot and needs a victory in one of their final two group games against Afghanistan and Bangladesh to secure a place in the knockout stage. Both teams approach the match with confidence, coming in with a strong run of form and a belief in their chances of reaching the semifinals.

In terms of team news, Naveen-ul-Haq, who sparked the controversy, may return to the Afghanistan side after being dropped in the last match. Australia’s Steve Smith is grappling with vertigo, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has returned to India after the passing of his grandfather. Additionally, Glenn Maxwell is back in contention after missing the previous match due to a concussion suffered from a fall off a golf buggy.

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