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ABU DHABI: Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan expressed disappointment on his side’s early exit from the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025.
Afghanistan crashed out of the tournament’s group stage fixture after Sri Lanka cruised to a comprehensive six-wicket win here at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday night.
The victory also advanced Bangladesh to the Super Fours of the continental tournament.
In the post-match presentation, Rashid hailed Mohammad Nabi, who propelled Afghanistan to a respectable total.
“The way we finished off the innings was so special. We knew one over was there of the spinner and if one proper batter was there, we had a maximum chance of getting a big over,” he said.
Rashid rued poor bowling, stating that he could have bowled much better on a wicket that offered them less spin.
“We did not bowl as well as we should have, and that is why we did not win. It is pretty hard on a track like that. It is not a typical spinning wicket. Different to Dubai. But still, if you play good cricketing shots, it is possible to chase 170-180,” Rashid Khan elaborated.
The leg-spinner emphasized the team’s performance and mentioned their preparation ahead of the event.
“We had a great chance in the last game, we did not chase 150. That is what happens in T20 cricket. But we have to move forward and not repeat the mistakes.
Last three years, we have played a lot of ICC events and Asia Cups. We had great preparation for each, but I was expecting a lot more from the boys. Was not expecting to be eliminated. We had a semi-final at the last T20 World Cup, and the expectation was to be at least in the next round. We will think about it, analyze, and come back stronger, ” he concluded.
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