Minnows Afghanistan scripted history as they defeated 2012 champions West Indies by 6 runs in their final group league encounter of the ICC World Twenty20 here to sign off on a memorable note. The loss, however, has had no impact on West Indies’s fortunes, as they have topped Group 1 with six-points, just ahead of second placed England on net run rate.

Batting first, Afghanistan recovered from 56-5 to post 123-7, with Najib Zadran hitting a composed unbeaten 48. West Indies, who had won their first three matches, slumped from 79-3 to 117-8 to hand Afghanistan their biggest ever win, but still top Group 1.

Though the Asian minnows were knocked out after being defeated in their other three group fixtures, their spirited performances had caught the eye of the cricket world before they went one better and beat the former World T20 champions.

The victory sparked scenes of wild celebration on the pitch as well as off it with the cricket loving public of Afghanistan taking to the streets, which have more often than not been witness to unfortunate scenes of terror activities, to express their joy.

“In the past five to six years, Afghanistan’s cricket team defeated some powerful teams,” said team captain Asghar Stanikzai.

“Afghanistan will be a very successful team in upcoming years,” he added.

Watch Ecstatic welcome home for triumphant Afghan cricketers:

Watch Video: Pakistani Fans Chant ‘Shame Shame’ On Their Team’s Arrival