Afghanistan took revenge for a heartbreaking ODI World Cup 2023 loss as they registered their maiden win over Australia with a spectacular effort in a Super Eight clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The win also helped Afghanistan snap Australia’s eight-match winning streak in the marquee tournament.
Afghanistan’s historic achievement has triggered various reactions from former cricketers and pundits of the game. Let’s see how the cricketing fraternity reacted to Afghanistan’s first-ever win over Australia across formats.
The Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan was chuffed after the “massive win” and credited the century partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz for setting up the foundation. Rashid also heaped praise on Gulbadin Naib and Mohammad Nabi for chipping in with crucial contributions and making a difference at the end.
“It’s a massive win for us as a team and nation. Beating Australia is a great feeling. It is something we missed out, in 2023 ODI World Cup and also the 2022 World Cup in Australia,” said Rashid during the post-match presentation. “Quite important for us that we went back to the same XI as the group stage. We made some changes against India but today, we returned to our best XI,” he elaborated. He emphasized the efforts of Gulbadin Naib and Mohammad Nabi, mentioning, “When you give Gulbadin the ball, he is happy to receive it. His experience really helped today, and Nabi’s crucial early wicket of Warner was pleasing to see.”
Gulbadin Naib opened up on the magnitude of the achievement and lauded the efforts of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran with the willow in hand. “Thanks to dear Allah. We’ve waited for a long time. Big moment for our nation and our people. I have no words to say but thanks to the fans who have supported us in our career and cricket journey,” said Naib while receiving his Player of the Match (POTM) award.
Naib reflected on the game with joy and gratitude, saying, “I learnt from the batting innings on how to bowl. Thanks to Rashid for trusting me. It’s a whole team effort: Rahmanullah, Zadran, and also Naveen for the momentum. Thank God we finally beat Australia. It is a great achievement for Afghanistan; we have achieved many things in the last ten years but this is a big achievement. In the last World Cup, we played well and in this World Cup, we beat New Zealand too. Australia are a champion side so for us it is a big tournament.
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The win has also garnered reactions from the global cricketing community, with many former players and pundits praising Afghanistan’s resilience and spirit. Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke acknowledged Afghanistan’s impressive performance: “You have to give credit where it’s due. Afghanistan played brilliant cricket today. Their bowlers held their nerve, and their batsmen built crucial partnerships. It’s a monumental victory for them and something they should cherish.”
Indian cricket legend, Sachin Tendulkar, chipped in with his thoughts, saying, “Afghanistan’s win over Australia is a testament to their growth and perseverance. Their journey in international cricket has been inspiring, and this victory is a well-deserved reward for their hard work.”
From the English camp, ex-cricketer Kevin Pietersen tweeted, “What a game! Afghanistan has shown once again that they are a force to reckon with in world cricket. Kudos to the entire team for such a splendid show against one of the top sides in the world.”
Afghanistan’s cricket journey has been remarkable, starting from being an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) to now defeating some of the world’s strongest teams. Their progress has not been without challenges, both on and off the field. The win over Australia exemplifies their fighting spirit and dedication to the sport.
This win holds more significance considering Afghanistan’s past encounters with Australia. The Afghan team had met the Australians in previous World Cup events but had never been able to cross the winning line against them. This triumph, therefore, can be seen as a redemption of sorts, erasing the past disappointments and setting a new benchmark for Afghanistan cricket.
The voices from within the Afghan camp resonated with pride and joy. Vice-captain Rahmat Shah also weighed in, saying, “We’ve always believed in our capabilities. Today’s win is a validation of our belief, hard work, and unity. We dedicate this victory to our supporters who stand by us through thick and thin.”
Looking ahead, this win has instilled a new level of confidence within the Afghanistan squad. They now have the momentum to tackle their upcoming matches with renewed vigor and self-belief. As Afghanistan continues its journey through the T20 World Cup, their fans and supporters around the globe will hope for more such historic moments.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s landmark victory over Australia has not only rewritten their own cricket history but also sent a powerful message across the cricketing world. It demonstrates that with determination, strategy, and unity, even the most unexpected outcomes can be achieved. The cricketing fraternity will undoubtedly remember this match for years to come, as it marks a new beginning for Afghanistan cricket on the global stage.
