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'We'll Fight…': Rashid Khan After Losing Closely Fought Match Against Australia

image-lopk92qzRashid speaks after the loss [AP Photo]

After a closely contested match against Australia at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Afghanistan's wily leg-spinner, Rashid Khan is determined to make a strong comeback against South Africa in their last league match of this year's World Cup.

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 291, thanks to an exceptional century by Ibrahim Zadran and a brilliant cameo by Rashid Khan, who contributed 35 runs from just 18 balls.

In the defence of this challenging target, Afghanistan's Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai bowled brilliantly during the powerplay. The Afghans managed to reduce the Aussies to a precarious 91/7. However, the game took a turn when they dropped Glenn Maxwell not once, but twice, allowing the momentum to slip away from their grasp.

Maxwell, taking full advantage of the lifelines he received, went on to smash 201 not out from 128 balls, laced with 21 fours and 10 sixes. 

The heroic effort by Maxwell led Australia to successfully chase down a target of 292 runs in the 47th over. It marked Australia's highest-ever run chase in the history of the World Cup, and Maxwell's innings also became the highest individual score by an Australian in ODIs.

Disappointed Rashid speaks

Despite the disappointment of the loss, Rashid Khan, who had taken two wickets against Australia, expressed his determination to make a comeback in the tournament. 

"We'll continue to fight,"  Rashid Khan wrote on his 'X' handle.

Australia's victory secured their place in the semi-finals with a sixth consecutive win in the tournament, while Afghanistan now has to consider various permutations and combinations as they have garnered eight points from eight games.

Afghanistan's remarkable journey in the tournament included victories over defending champions England, as well as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. A win against Australia would have significantly enhanced their chances of progressing further.

Looking ahead, Afghanistan will face South Africa in Ahmedabad, knowing that a win is essential for their hopes of advancing.