Rashid Khan On Afghanistan's Defeat (Source: @ACBofficials/x.com)
Despite being one of the best T20I sides in the World, Afghanistan’s recent form in the shortest format is raising eyebrows. Their heartbreaking loss to Bangladesh has left Rashid Khan and his men with Super Four qualification hanging in the balance.
Against Bangladesh, they lost their flow in the mid-way, and that cost them the match. After the Horrific defeat, Rashid Khan accepted their flaws, highlighting their brain-fading mistakes.
Rashid Khan Reflects On Costly Loss
While bowling first in the match, Afghanistan struggled with their bowling. However, Rashid Khan secured two wickets while conceding 26 runs. But their struggle turned heads in the second innings, while chasing the 155-run total. After Sediqullah Atal walked away on a golden duck, their struggle became harder. Despite Rashid’s efforts to turn the game, Bangladesh’s lethal attack overwhelmed the rest of the batting lineup.
After they faced a narrow eight-run defeat against the Tigers, Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan reflected on their performances. Admitting their shortcomings, he said it wasn’t the display they were capable of, as victory was within reach.
“I think we were in the game till the end. We were in the game until I got out. We just couldn't finish things off. 31 off 18 balls was definitely gettable. We haven't played the type of cricket for which we are famous. We haven't played the attacking brand of cricket for which we are famous. We let ourselves get under pressure,” he said.
“The way we came back with the ball to restrict them under 160 was really special, but with the batting, we weren't at our best. To restrict them to under 160s, after they had 90 in the first 10 overs, was a huge job. I think it was a 160-170-run wicket; We played some irresponsible shots with the bat,” he added.
Lessons From A Heartbreaking Defeat
Every defeat comes with a lesson, and Afghanistan’s latest defeat was no different. With their Super Four hopes now hanging by a thread, Rashid Khan vowed to learn from the setback and lead the team toward a stronger comeback.
“There are a lot of learnings that we will take away from this game. See, every game is important in a tournament like this. Every game is important in the Asia Cup. We have to be fully prepared against Sri Lanka. We need to learn from our mistakes and be mentally strong. Definitely, it will be a big challenge for us,” he said.
After being slipped into the third position of the points table, Afghanistan will face table-toppers Sri Lanka on September 18. As both are eyeing a Super Four qualification, fans are on their way to another thrilling clash.
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