'I Want To Thank The Indian Crowd..'- Hashmatullah Shahidi After Beating Sri Lanka
Afghanistan has climbed to fifth position in World Cup 2023 points table (Twitter)
Afghanistan's spectacular seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the World Cup 2023 clash at the MCA Stadium in Pune showcased a commendable all-round effort.
Shahidi praised team, head coach, and thanked fans after win over Sri Lanka
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, reflecting on the team's exceptional performance, expressed immense pride in how his team excelled in all three cricketing facets.
Speaking in the post-match presentation, Shahidi credited the team's successful chase against Pakistan in the last match as a confidence booster that bolstered their belief in chasing down any target set before them. He noted that the team's approach from the outset of today's match, from bowling and fielding to batting, was very systematic and clinical.
“Quite happy. Proud of the team for the way they have performed in all three departments. The way we chased against Pakistan gave us a belief in chasing any target we get. It gave us a lot of confidence. Today, especially, we started well from the beginning. The way we bowled, fielded and then batted. Very clinical the way we approached the chase,” said Shahidi.
The Afghanistan captain reserved special praise for head coach Jonathan Trott, highlighting that the Englishman's counsel had notably transformed their game. He revealed that a specific piece of advice from Trott prior to the Pakistan match was particularly influential in altering Shahidi's personal approach to the game.
“All of the management and support staff are working really hard and keep us motivated all the way. Especially Jonathan, you know, he has changed our approach. The one word he said to me before the game against Pakistan changed my approach and gave confidence to me,” added the southpaw.
In the midst of the victory celebrations, Shahidi didn't forget to acknowledge Rashid Khan's milestone 100th ODI, lauding him as a source of energy and positivity that ignites the team's spirit on the field.
As a parting note, the 28-year-old extended heartfelt gratitude to their fans, giving a special nod to the Indian crowd for their ceaseless support throughout the tournament.
"One word for Rashid Khan I want to say that he has been energetic. Very full of energy, positivity and fills plenty of energy in the boys on the field. Thank you very much. At the end, I want to thank all the people of my nation as well the Indian crowd for supporting us,” concluded Shahidi.
Coming to the game, Sri Lanka were bundled out for 241 in 49.3 overs, despite commendable performances from Pathum Nissanka, who scored 46 off 60 balls and Kusal Mendis with a gritty 39 off 50 deliveries.
Afghanistan's bowlers, however, were the stars of the day, with Fazalhaq Farooqi tearing through the Lankan batting lineup with an impressive 4/34 in his 10-over spell.
Chasing the target, Afghanistan made a statement with a confident chase, reaching 242 for the loss of only three wickets in 45.2 overs. Young Azmatullah Omarzai played a match-winning knock of 73 not out off 63 balls, while Shahidi stayed unbeaten on 58.
The Sri Lankan bowlers, especially Dilshan Madushanka and Kasun Rajitha, tried to make inroads but couldn't prevent Afghanistan from securing a seven-wicket victory.
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