Afghanistan Qualify For World Twenty20

Afghanistan qualified for the 2012 World Twenty20 after beating Namibia by 47 runs in Dubai.

Afghanistan were bowled out for 146 in their 20 overs before Namibia were dismissed for 99 in the 19th over.

It's the second time Afghanistan have reached the group stages of the tournament. In 2010 they lost to India and South Africa in the West Indies.

"A second successive appearance for Afghanistan in a global ICC event after having only started to play internationally in the World Cricket League Division 5 in 2008, is very impressive." said International Cricket Council chief executive Haroon Lorgat.

"I expect there will be lots of celebrations in Kabul and why not? By qualifying for the World T20, Afghanistan will get another chance to showcase its talents and passion for the game of cricket."

Despite the loss, Namibia will get a second chance of making the World Twenty20 when they face either Ireland or the Netherlands in Saturday's second qualifying final.