Afghanistan Draws Confidence from Past Victory Over England Ahead…

Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi speaks of confidence from their 2023 World Cup victory over England ahead of their crucial Champions Trophy match. Both teams must win to maintain semi-final hopes after losing their opening matches. England’s captain Jos Buttler acknowledges Afghanistan’s capabilities but emphasizes focusing on their own game despite external pressures against playing Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed confidence ahead of their Champions Trophy clash with England, citing their notable 2023 World Cup victory over the defending champions as a significant morale boost. Both teams are seeking a win in Lahore to keep their semi-final aspirations alive after losing their opening matches. With the recent washout of Australia and South Africa’s game, this match becomes critical for both sides.

Afghanistan’s triumph over England in 2023, where they won by 69 runs, has fueled their determination. Shahidi remarked, “We worked hard to achieve at this level and are ready to play every game in a positive way. We will take that confidence with us from the 2023 World Cup. But at the same time, tomorrow is a new day and we will try our best to beat them again.”

England Captain Jos Buttler acknowledged Afghanistan’s growth as a formidable team. He emphasized that, while respecting Afghanistan’s ability, the focus would remain on executing their own strategy. Buttler stated, “As much as we look at the opposition, it is focusing on ourselves, bringing the best version of our cricket.”

Afghanistan faced a severe defeat against South Africa in their opener, being dismissed for 208 runs while conceding 315. Shahidi anticipates an improved performance, particularly from the spin bowlers, on a pitch that he expects to favor them. He stated, “The world knows we have quality spinners. Hopefully, we have some support for our spinners in tomorrow’s game.”

Despite calls for England to boycott the match due to the Taliban’s treatment of Afghan women, the England and Wales Cricket Board has resisted this pressure while refusing to schedule future bilateral series with Afghanistan. Shahidi maintained focus on the game, asserting, “We are cricket players, we are sportsmen. What we control is what we do on the ground.”

As Afghanistan prepares to face England, both teams are under pressure to perform following their initial defeats in the Champions Trophy. Afghanistan is drawing on past success against England to bolster confidence, while England remains focused on their gameplay amidst external political pressures. With both teams needing a win, the outcome will be crucial for their tournament ambitions.

Original Source: www.france24.com