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Afghanistan dominated Pakistan batters for the better part of the run chase but Naseem Shah’s two sixes led to heartbreak for Mohammad Nabi’s brigade. After getting knocked out of Asia Cup 2022, Afghanistan had to face India in their last Super 4 game. When Nabi walked out for coin toss, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri asked about what happened after the gut-wrenching loss at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
“We left the stadium immediately and went to the hotel last night. Had some green tea and took a few sleeping pills, it was a tough night. We have played well in the tournament, we could have won the last two games. We will try our best to play some good cricket,” Nabi replied to Shastri’s question.
Shastri also lauded Afghanistan for their spirited effort against Babar Azam’s Pakistan while defending a small target of 130.
While Nabi named an unchanged side for the dead rubber after winning the toss and opting to field first, the Indian side had three changes. Skipper Rohit Sharma decided to take a break and KL Rahul walked out for the toss. Also, Hardik Pandya and Yuzvendra Chahal have been rested for India’s last Super 4 clash after tough losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka earlier this week.
This is Nabi’s 101th T20I appearance. In his 100th T20I appearance, he got out for a golden duck.
“I think it's all about taking wickets at important times, whenever the captain needs wickets - that's what I am there for. Getting a batsman in trouble, that's in my control. We got those wickets (against Pakistan) last night by playing with the batsmen's mindset. We just need to focus on today's game, playing against a big team like India. We need to forget about yesterday, these tough times will help us in the World Cup. Today we have a chance to play against a big team and play against big players,” said Afghan star spinner Rashid Khan before the match.
