Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghanistan humbled Pakistan in the World Cup 2023 with a dominating eight-wicket win at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. While Babar Azam’s men were left devastated by the defeat, Afghanistan players celebrated their historic win in the dressing room.
Afghan spinners Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman climbed on the tables and danced with their teammates. Afghanistan’s team mentor Ajay Jadeja joined the celebrations as well after they pulled off the highest run chase against Pakistan in World Cups. The video of their wild celebrations posted by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has gone viral on social media.
After teenager Noor Ahmad's three-fer on World Cup debut helped Afghanistan restrict Pakistan to 282/7, Afghanistan were clinical in their approach even though they got over the line with six balls to spare.
Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz attacked during fielding restrictions whereas Ibrahim Zadran played the anchor role. After their half-centuries, Rahmat Shah and Shahidi ensured that Pakistan bowlers didn't cause a collapse and make their way back into the game.
“This win tastes nice. The way we chased was very professional. Looking forward for the other games. The way we chased today, we'll do it again. The quality cricket that we have been playing from the last couple of years, the belief was there when we were playing the Asia Cup also,” Shahidi said in the post-match presentation.
Shahidi also revealed the conversation before the World Cup 2023 with his teammates.
“At the start of the tournament, I said that we want to make this tournament historic for our country people. First was England, today Pakistan, looking forward for the other games. We'll try our best to play positive cricket and do a lot for our country in this World Cup,” the 29-year-old said.
Shahid lauded his teammates as he said, “The spin bowling department did very well. We gave a chance to Noor and trusted in him, he showed his talent. The way Gurbaz and Ibrahim started the innings, they gave that momentum and confidence. The game was in our hand from the beginning till the end. The last partnership that me and Rahmat played was also good.”
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