It’s something we missed in last two years: Rashid on epic win over Australia

PTI, Jun 23, 2024, 11:38 AM IST

Skipper Rashid Khan lauded Afghanistan for their “massive” win over heavyweights Australia in the T20 World Cup, saying such glorious moments were missing in the last couple of years and attributed the victory to the number of all-rounders at the team’s disposal.

Afghanistan notched up a first-ever 21-run win over Australia in their must-win super 8 clash to keep their hopes of reaching the semifinals alive.

“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,” Rashid said at the post-match presentation.

Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (60) and Ibrahim Zadran (51) slammed half-centuries but Australia restricted them to a manageable 148 for 6.

However,all-rounder Gulabdin Naib produced his career-best figures of 4/20 to bowl out Australia for 127 in 19.2 overs.

“140 was a good total on this wicket. We didn’t finish as well as we should have.

“Opening partnership gave us best start. On this wicket, anything 130-plus, we were capable of defending it as long as we kept calm and had the belief. That’s the beauty of this team, having all-rounders and having options.”

Heaping praise on Naib, Rashid said: “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.”