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Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi echoed the sentiments of millions of Afghan cricket fans when he spoke to Rashid Khan over a video call, congratulating the team for making it to the semi-final of the men’s T20 World Cup 2024. On Tuesday, June 25, after Afghanistan’s thrilling win over Bangladesh in their last Super 8 match at the Arnov Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent, Muttaqi began his conversation with “Mubarak” (congratulations), sharing his and the nation’s pride in the team’s historic achievement.
A Historic Victory
Afghanistan secured one of their most memorable victories by reaching the semi-final of the men’s T20 World Cup for the first time. The team was on a giant-killing spree in the Caribbean, having defeated former finalists New Zealand in the group stage and pulling off a sensational win over Australia in the Super 8 match. The Afghanistan Cricket Board shared a video of the Taliban Foreign Minister speaking to Rashid Khan, who was at the ground after the thrilling victory against Bangladesh.
Celebrations and Commendations
Muttaqi congratulated the team on beating Bangladesh and wished them luck for the rest of the tournament. Afghanistan defended 115 runs in a close match affected by rain. The players celebrated by dancing on the field, led by Rashid Khan. They lifted head coach Jonathan Troot and continued celebrating on the team bus, dancing to music with bowling coach Dwayne Bravo.
Nationwide Jubilation
Back home, the streets of Nangarhar province in Afghanistan were filled with people celebrating Afghanistan’s historic progression to the semi-finals. It was a day of immense joy and pride for the Afghans as Rashid Khan’s team achieved the unthinkable, joining England, South Africa, and India in the last four of the T20 World Cup.
Looking Ahead
Afghanistan is set to take on South Africa in Trinidad in the first semi-final on Wednesday, June 26 (Thursday morning in India). With the nation’s support and the team’s momentum, Afghanistan’s journey in the T20 World Cup continues to inspire and unite their fans back home and around the world.
