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Hashmatullah Shahidi Dedicates Win Over Netherlands To Refugees Of Afghanistan

image-loirm9ukHashmatullah Shahidi | Source: X.com

Afghanistan secured their fourth win in the 2023 World Cup by defeating the Netherlands with a seven-wicket victory on Friday, November 3 at Lucknow's Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium, propelling them to the fifth spot on the points table.  

Afghanistan's convincing win over the Netherlands was the outcome of a well-rounded bowling display complemented by their strong batting. Firstly, they bowled Netherlands out for 179 runs, with Mohammad Nabi securing a three-wicket haul. 

In reply, Afghanistan successfully reached the target in 31.3 overs, led by their captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, who played an unbeaten innings of 56 runs from 64 balls, including six boundaries. Additionally, Rahmat Shah made a significant contribution with a half-century. 

In the post-match press conference following their victory, Afghanistan's captain Hashmatullah Shahidi was questioned about whether it was their bowling or batting that played a more significant role in the win. Here’s what he said: 

“I would say both, we bowled well but the run-chase also. It's the third time we are achieving a target. Especially in this World Cup, we are looking at the target of the opposition.” 

Shahidi further stated that they will try their best to make it to the semifinals, with only two matches remaining against powerhouses like Australia and South Africa. 

“We all are very united, we all are enjoying the wins and all of them are thinking about the team. We are trying our best to make it to the semi-finals. If we make it, it would be a big achievement for us.”

Shahidi also opened up about losing his mother three months ago, and his family's going through a tough time. If they make it to the semis, it'd mean the world to them, and his mother and the whole country would be beaming with pride. Furthermore, he's giving this win against the Netherlands to the refugees sent back to Afghanistan.

“I lost my mother three months back, so my family is in pain, so it will be a big achievement for our country first and then for me also. I would like to give a message - there are a lot of our refugee people in struggle, we all are watching their videos and we feel their pain. I dedicate this win to them.” 

Afghanistan will lock horns with Australia on November 7 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.