Afghanistan's cricket captain, Rashid Khan, dedicated their recent win over Australia in the T20 World Cup Super 8 game to the people of his war-torn nation. He said that cricket is their sole source of happiness amidst adversity.
What did Rashid Khan say about Afghanistan's win over Australia?
Speaking after the match, Rashid expressed that cricket is more than just a game for Afghanistan; it's a beacon of joy in difficult times.
"Cricket is the source of happiness back home, that is the only source left in Afghanistan where people could celebrate - so we are lucky to be here giving this happiness back home, we hardly see these kind of events back home where they could celebrate & enjoy," Rashid said in the post-match press conference.
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What did Rashid Khan say on cancellation of bilateral series against Australia?
Rashid Khan lamented Cricket Australia's decision not to play bilateral series against Afghanistan since the Taliban took over. Australia cancelled three scheduled series against Afghanistan in the last three years.
“Something which isn’t under the control, we can’t do anything about it. If there was a solution for it, we’d have been happy. But I don’t know what’s the solution for it. If we play in a World Cup, why don’t we play in a bilateral series?” Rashid expressed his disappointment.
Despite the bilateral cricket issues, Rashid recalled the overwhelming support he received from Australian fans during Big Bash League and international tours.
The win over Australia not only boosted Afghanistan's chances in the T20 World Cup but also brought hope to the people back home. Rashid highlighted how seeing smiles and celebrations across Afghanistan energizes him and motivates the team to make their nation proud.
With a crucial match against Bangladesh next, Rashid Khan and his team are determined to continue their winning momentum and aim for a historic first-ever World Cup semifinal berth.
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