Afghanistan’s hopes for a maiden World Cup semi-final appearance suffered a significant blow on Tuesday after the team managed to post only 115/5 in challenging batting conditions.
At one point, it seemed they might not even reach the 100-run mark, but a crucial 10-ball cameo by Rashid Khan, featuring three towering sixes, spared the team further embarrassment and kept their dreams alive.
However, Rashid’s explosive performance culminated in an emotional outburst during the final over of the innings. After hitting the second ball of the over for a six, Rashid mishit the next delivery, which landed in a gap between fielders as he and Karim Janat scrambled for runs.
Adding to the Tigers’ woes, the ball took an unlucky deflection off a fielder’s knee, making a second run possible. Rashid sprinted down the pitch to seize the opportunity, but Karim firmly denied the call, forcing Rashid to retreat from halfway down the pitch. Frustrated, Rashid slammed his bat onto the ground and in Karim’s direction, though no harm ensued.
Rashid khan throws his bat on his partner for not taking the second run. #AfgVsBan. pic.twitter.com/09pobNvCvs
— Fawad Rehman (@fawadrehman) June 25, 2024
When Karim returned the bat, Rashid vented his frustration, and the situation escalated as he continued to berate his teammate. The incident drew significant backlash on social media, with many criticizing the lack of sportsmanship displayed by the Afghan star.
