Afghanistan revels after historical victory

As Afghanistan sensationally secured their place in the World Cup semifinals in the Caribbean, the nation erupted in euphoria. Following the match that concluded on Tuesday morning, revelry filled the streets across all provinces, including the capital city of Kabul. “The reaction has been nothing short of incredible. It feels like a dream. In the past three years, there hasn’t been an occasion where so many people poured out onto the streets,” remarked Hikmat Hasan, a former employee of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), who has been displaced after the Taliban assumed power.

Thousands of people poured onto the streets of Nangarhar, the province from which skipper Rashid Khan hails. In the provincial capital, Jalalabad, large screens were set up at various intersections, drawing crowds eager to watch the game and join in the festivities. Similar scenes unfolded in Khost, hometown of players like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Noor Khan, further adding to the nationwide celebration. Most Afghans tuned in to Ariana TV, a prominent private channel in the Taliban-led country, to watch the game that passed into the pages of cricket history.

The match itself was a thrilling affair, culminating in a nail-biting finish that resulted in amazing scenes at the Arnos Vale Ground in St Vincent. Skipper Rashid Khan led the way for the underdogs, saying, as quoted by BBC, “It would bring immense hope to people back home. Cricket is the sole source of happiness for us, you all know that.”

Rashid, in an interview in Pashto posted on the official X handle of ACB, said that apart from Brian Lara, no one gave them a chance to do well in the World Cup and they are happy to prove the legend right. “It’s an unbelievable feeling, and I think we have proved one person very right – Brian Lara, the only person who mentioned Afghanistan to be in the top four. I think we told him that as well when we met him at the welcome party – we will make sure we prove that right. I think when you get the kind of great, great statements from a legend, as a team, I think it gives you lots of energy as well,” the Afghanistan captain said.

Hasan noticed people celebrating privately in their homes, and cakes were selling like hotcakes. “I visited a cake shop and saw many customers buying cakes with cricketers’ and cricket-related names written on them to celebrate at home,” he shared. Celebrations were also observed in private offices, guest houses, and farmhouses. “It feels surreal,” Hasan remarked from Afghanistan. “The emotions are indescribable. I’m at a loss for words.”

Rashid was also lost for words after the triumph. “It’s unbelievable, I don’t have any words to describe my feelings. Back home, everyone is so happy for this big achievement,” the Afghanistan skipper, who scored a crucial unbeaten 19 off 10 balls and then came back to claim four wickets for 23 runs, said. Afghanistan beat Bangladesh by eight runs on DLS method to seal their place in the last four round.

Many former players of the country have commented on the win and congratulated the team on social media. Previous captain Asghar Afghan posted a comment hailing the win. “We have reached the Semi-Finals of the World Cup! Heartfelt congratulations to our champs, great nation and to all our passionate fans around the world. Alhamdulillah (sic).” Comments were also there from international stars, and national and domestic players. “Afghanistan, your road to the semi-finals has been incredible, overcoming the likes of New Zealand and Australia. Today’s win is a testament to your hard work & determination. So proud of your progress. Keep it up!” said Sachin Tendulkar.

The Afghanistan government does not allow women to play cricket. However, there was also a post from a woman cricketer who is in exile. “Congratulations to all Afghans. You made history. Be happy, celebrate. Now the world is yours,” Firooza Afghan said. “Same country, same sport, same talent, same goal, same ability – but you cannot play because you are a woman.”

Afghanistan, who stunningly upset favourites Australia in a Super 8 game, will take on South Africa in the first semifinal in Trinidad on June 26.