Afghanistan’s cricket team, buoyed by their victory over England, aims for a semi-final spot against Australia. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi highlights their increased confidence and emphasizes the importance of a positive strategy in the crucial match. Despite historical losses to Australia, recent performances showcase Afghanistan’s potential to achieve further success.
Afghanistan’s cricket captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed his ambitions regarding their upcoming match against Australia after their recent victory over England. Having sent England out of the Champions Trophy with an eight-run margin in Lahore, Afghanistan seeks another upset as they aim for a semi-final spot against the world champions, Australia, on Friday at Gaddafi Stadium. Shahidi noted, “Obviously a win like this boosts every team’s confidence and strengthens them. Our morale has increased even more.”
Shahidi emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, acknowledging Australia’s formidable reputation. He reiterated that the team aims for positive performances, stating, “We will try to play a positive game. Just like we defeated England today, we hope to beat Australia as well.” While rain might threaten to complicate Afghanistan’s path to the semi-finals, even a no-result could keep them in contention, dependent on other match outcomes or net run-rate.
Afghanistan has previously faced Australia in four ODIs, with Australia winning each encounter. However, in the last World Cup, Afghanistan surprised Australia with a near upset before Glenn Maxwell’s remarkable innings secured victory for the Australians. Reflecting on Maxwell’s danger, Shahidi remarked, “I know that he played really well in the 2023 World Cup, but that’s part of history.”
The team’s confidence was bolstered by a remarkable performance from Ibrahim Zadran, who scored 177 runs—the highest individual innings in Champions Trophy history—helping Afghanistan recover from a shaky start against England. Shahidi commended Zadran’s impressive return after a long injury layoff, stating, “I am extremely happy for him because he is a very talented and hard-working player.”
Afghanistan aims to continue their surprising run in the Champions Trophy by challenging Australia for a semi-final spot. Having recently defeated England, the team’s confidence has surged, with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi committed to maintaining a positive approach. Despite past defeats to Australia, they look to build on their recent successes, particularly following standout performances from players like Ibrahim Zadran.
Original Source: www.mdjonline.com
