Afghanistan is currently leading the T20 World Cup. Afghanistan advanced to the Super Eight stage of the tournament and then defeated Australia to reach the semi-finals, despite being up against some of the toughest teams in international cricket.
The nation was ecstatic as word spread that Afghanistan had made it to the finals. After the team’s match against Bangladesh, which guaranteed them a spot in the semifinals, large crowds flooded the nation’s streets, particularly in the capital city of Kabul.
Additionally, thousands of people descended upon Nangarhar’s streets, the province captain Rashid Khan is from. In addition, as masses assembled in Jalalabad to watch the games, big screens were erected at intersections.
Hikmat Hasan, a former employee of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), came forward to say how amazing the response has been across the nation following the team’s semi-final qualification.
“It has been an absolutely amazing response. It has the feel of a dream. There hasn’t been an occasion in the last three years when so many people flocked to the streets “Cricbuzz cited Hasan as saying.
“I went to a cake shop and observed a lot of people purchasing cakes to celebrate at home with the names of cricket players and other cricket-related characters printed on them. The feelings are ineffable, and it seems bizarre. “I don’t know what to say,” he continued.
The team captained by Rashid Khan will not be content to merely make it to the semi-final, despite the ongoing celebrations. Many have voiced their opinions, saying that Afghanistan’s victory over elite teams is shocking. On the other hand, the group’s constant performances in the format suggest otherwise. Following outstanding performances throughout the World Cup, the team will focus on the next match.
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Afghanistan will play South Africa, who is undefeated, in the competition’s Semi-Final 1. On Thursday, June 27, the two teams will square off at Tarouba, Trinidad’s Brian Lara Stadium. The victor of the match will advance to the top match and take on the victor of the match between England and India.