World Cup 2023: Irfan Pathan, Rashid Khan's victory dance unites cricket fans after Afghanistan's win over Pakistan | Watch
PTC Web Desk: In a sensational turn of events at the 2023 Cricket World Cup, the Hashmatullah Shahidi-led Afghanistan cricket team has continued to astound the world with their remarkable journey. Dispelling any notions that their victory over defending champions England was a mere stroke of luck, Afghanistan achieved an emphatic win against their arch-rivals, Pakistan.
This stunning triumph catapulted Afghanistan to the sixth position on the Cricket World Cup points table, marking a historic milestone as they defeated Pakistan in a One Day International (ODI) match for the very first time.
The Afghan side exhibited an awe-inspiring display of batting prowess, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz notching up 65 runs, Ibrahim Zadran shining with an impressive 87, and Rahmat Shah's unbeaten 77* anchoring their victory. The heroics extended to the bowling department, with Noor Ahmed claiming a stellar three-wicket haul.
The euphoria that followed this monumental win was palpable, as even former Indian cricket star, Irfan Pathan, could be seen dancing in celebration alongside Rashid Khan.
Following Afghanistan's historic triumph over Pakistan, jubilant fans from Afghanistan and beyond came together to express their gratitude for the outpouring of support, particularly from the city of Chennai.
One Afghan fan articulated their sentiments, saying, "I am from Afghanistan and it was amazing to win the match. I want to thank Indians for supporting us, people from Chennai have supported our team."
Irfan Pathan dancing with Rashid Khan.
- Video of the day from Chepauk...!!!pic.twitter.com/ijoMGqKht1 — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 23, 2023
The jubilation among fans was evident as they rejoiced, with one ecstatic Afghan supporter declaring, "It was amazing. Fans were so excited, they were jumping as if we had won the World Cup. This feels more exciting than winning the World Cup. Seeing Afghanistan beat Pakistan is something really amazing. It was a wonderful match, it was perfect. I love the ground in Chennai."
Amidst the celebrations, a thoughtful fan emphasised the plight of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan, advocating for their fair treatment and expressing hope that Afghanistan would progress to the semi-finals of the tournament. Ibrahim Zadran, who played a pivotal role in the victory, dedicated his Player of the Match award to the people of Afghanistan, as well as those Afghans who face deportation from Pakistan.
"This is a significant milestone for our team, and I hope Afghanistan advances to the semi-finals as well," said one passionate Afghan fan. "They (Pakistan) should not treat us like this; there should be a proper way to deal with this. Ibrahim Zadran has dedicated this victory to those people who are very sad now and who need support. I would like to thank Ibrahim Zadran for caring deeply for the people of Afghanistan. This win is like winning the World Cup for us, and we will continue to secure more victories. Our team is growing stronger."
- With inputs from agencies
