Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised Indian supporters for their support during the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. On Monday, October 30, Afghanistan defeated Sri Lanka by 7 wickets at the MCA Stadium in Pune. With 7 wickets and 20 balls in hand, Afghanistan chased down 242 runs against former champions Sri Lanka. I want to congratulate all the Afghanistan supporters and especially want to thank the Indian fans for coming out and supporting us, Shahidi said in a statement.
Shahidi lauded spinner Rashid Khan, calling him the finest in the world. Rashid took Dhananjaya de Silva’s wicket in his 100th ODI for Afghanistan at Pune. Rashid Khan is a unique player and the best in the world. I would like to mention one thing about Rashid, he has been quite enthusiastic and energetic. Very full of energy and positivity, and he fills plenty of energy in the boys on the field, Shahidi added.
Afghanistan bowled Sri Lanka out for 241 runs in 49.3 overs, with bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi taking four wickets. In response, Afghan skipper Shahidi (58*), Rahmat Shah (62), and Azmatullah Omarzai (73*) all hit half-centuries to help the Afghans to a 7-wicket victory against the Lankans. Afghanistan has climbed up to fifth place in the World Cup points standings, firmly establishing themselves in the race for the semi-finals. Afghans have already defeated three former world champions in the 2023 ODI World Cup, defeating defending champions England, 1992 champions Pakistan, and 1996 title winners Sri Lanka.
Afghanistan’s stunning victory over Sri Lanka not only moved them closer to a semi-final position but also saw them surpass Pakistan in the points table. Afghanistan gained two critical points with this victory, bringing their total to six. This moved them ahead of Pakistan in the points standings, as they sit in sixth place with four points. Afghanistan’s good net run rate also helps them to be atop.
Afghanistan’s ascension up the points table demonstrates their will and ability to be a dark horse in this tournament. The race for the semi-final positions becomes even more exciting as the competition heats up. Cricket fans may expect more exciting matches in the following days. Afghanistan will now turn their attention towards the Netherlands, with the two sides set to clash at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on November 3.
