How Afghanistan’s Fairytale Cricket Journey Started in Dubai
Rashid Latif, the former Pakistan captain, recently reflected on Afghanistan’s remarkable journey in cricket, highlighting the pivotal role Dubai played in their rise. As Afghanistan reached the T20 World Cup semifinals, people across the nation celebrated, marking a historic achievement for a team from a war-torn country that only started playing serious cricket a decade ago.
Latif, who coached Afghanistan during their formative years, rejoiced in their success. Just seven months after narrowly missing a semifinal spot at the ODI World Cup, Afghanistan made history in the T20 format with a thrilling 8-run victory over Bangladesh, setting up a semifinal clash with South Africa. This accomplishment is astonishing for a team that started its cricket journey relatively recently.
Mazher Arshad, a well-known cricket statistician, emphasized the magnitude of Afghanistan’s achievement. “Sixteen years ago, Afghanistan were in Division 5 of the ICC World Cricket League, playing against teams like Japan, Singapore, and Botswana. Today, they are in the semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup ahead of teams like Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and the West Indies.”
Latif, a world-class wicketkeeper in the 1990s, explained that Afghanistan’s journey began to take shape under his coaching. Their first significant success came when they won the silver medal at the 2010 Asian Games, stunning Pakistan in the semifinals. However, Latif believes the true turning point was at the Dubai International Stadium a few months before the Asian Games.
In 2010, a young Afghan team, comprised mainly of players who learned cricket in refugee camps in Peshawar, Pakistan, captured attention by defeating Scotland in the ICC Intercontinental Cup final in Dubai. “That win in Dubai was the turning point. It was a very big achievement for a young team,” Latif told the Khaleej Times from Karachi. “The prize money was $100,000. At that time, there was hardly any money in Afghan cricket. So that victory and the prize money were significant motivators for the players to take the next big step.”
Latif also credited Abdul Rahman Bukhatir, the visionary Emirati cricket promoter, for offering crucial support. Bukhatir allowed Afghanistan to play their home matches at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, as security concerns prevented them from hosting international matches at home. This support was instrumental in Afghanistan’s development.
Afghanistan’s cricket journey progressed rapidly, with their T20 World Cup debut in 2010 and their first ODI World Cup appearance in 2015. By 2018, they made their Test debut against India in Bangalore. Their players now feature in some of the world’s top T20 leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Latif noted that Afghanistan’s fearless approach has made them a dark horse in every World Cup. He compared their mindset to that of Australia, emphasizing their aggression, power, fitness, and bravery. “They have the aggressive mindset of Australia. They play with power, have excellent fitness levels, and are incredibly brave. They compete until the last ball and leave everything on the field.”
As a former coach, Latif expressed immense pride in Afghanistan’s achievement. “I am very proud; it’s a significant achievement for Afghan cricket. They are aggressive and have excellent game awareness,” he said, praising skipper Rashid Khan for leading from the front.
Rashid Khan, a superstar leg-spinner and the team’s captain, has been brilliant with both ball and bat. His leadership, along with key performances from players like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Naveen-ul-Haq, Gulbadin Naib, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi, has been crucial in Afghanistan’s success. Many of these players have gained valuable experience playing in top franchise leagues, including the IPL.
Latif believes that coaching Afghanistan is a unique and enriching experience for any coach. “If you are a successful coach but haven’t coached Afghanistan, something is missing in your CV. You learn a lot about cricket and team spirit by coaching them. They have a very positive attitude, no egos, and are fast learners.”
While Latif predicted that South Africa might have the edge in the semifinal, he did not rule out Afghanistan’s chances. “If Afghanistan can put up a score of 160 or 170 batting first, it will be game on. Rashid, Noor, Nabi, Naveen, and Gulbadin will then fancy their chances of taking wickets.”
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s journey from refugee camps to the T20 World Cup semifinals is a testament to their resilience, talent, and the support they received along the way. If they reach the final, it would mark one of the most significant days in cricket history.
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By- Sahiba Suri