Rashid Khan helped Afghanistan register a historic win against Australia.
Photo : AP
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Usman Khawaja’s message goes beyond just cricket.
- Usman Khawaja wrote a heartfelt message to Rashid Khan.
- Usman Khawaja lamented the missed opportunity for Australian fans.
Usman Khawaja, the Australian opening batsman, conveyed his disappointment regarding the restrictions imposed on hosting Afghanistan‘s cricket team Down Under in the aftermath of their historic victory at the T20 World Cup. Afghanistan’s sensational victory over Australia in the T20 World Cup on Sunday has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Khawaja, a veteran batsman himself, took to social media to acknowledge the Afghan team’s achievement.
“Well done Brother. Better team on the day. You boys are an inspiration for so many back home and abroad. So sad we can’t see you all play in Australia,” Khawaja wrote in a post shared by Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan on X.
Khawaja’s comments probably refer to the current political complexities that are preventing Afghanistan from playing international matches in Australia. As a result, cricket fans in Australia are missing the chance to see Afghanistan’s emerging stars like Rashid Khan in action.
Earlier, Cricket Australia had cited deteriorating human rights conditions for women and girls under Taliban rule and postponed bilateral series against Afghanistan. CA has declined to play Afghanistan as many as three times since the Taliban seized control of the Asian nation in September 2021.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) had responded by calling for “respect” from Cricket Australia
How Afghanistan Stunned Australia In T20 World Cup?
Meanwhile, Afghanistan pulled off a shock 21-run win over mighty Australia in the T20 World Cup. Gulbadin Naib’s four-wicket haul upended Pat Cummins’ hat-trick to produce one of the most memorable days in Afghan cricket. Using the slower balls smartly on a difficult batting wicket, Afghanistan defended their total of 148 for six for their first-ever win over Australia in international cricket. Australia was all out for 127 in 19.2 overs in the Super Eight contest.
“It’s massive win for us as a team and as a nation. Great feeling. It’s something we missed in last two years. Really happy with the win and super proud of the guys,” Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan said at the post-match presentation.
“The way Gulbadin bowled today – the experience he has, it came good today. The way Nabi started – the wicket of Warner – was also pleasing to see.
It’s so important for us back home and around the world. I’m sure they’re proud and would’ve enjoyed the game,” he added.