Afghans issue WC warning | The Daily Star
12:00 AM, September 27, 2018 / LAST MODIFIED: 02:50 AM, September 27, 2018

Afghans issue WC warning

Before the start of the Asia Cup Afghanistan captain Asghar Afghan had warned his team would not only compete but would achieve something special.

Despite not qualifying for Friday's final the team from the warn-torn nation achieved enough to sound warning bells for World Cup 2019 teams.

Afghanistan finished the tournament on a high when on Tuesday they pulled off a sensational last over tie against world number two India in Dubai, proving they are a team on the rise.

It was akin to a win for Afghanistan, according to their captain, and the fact that India had their head in their hands while the Afghans did all the celebrating was telling.

"Yeah, when you tie with a team like India, it's like winning," said Afghan. "They usually chase easily. It is good for the fans as well.

"On this type of (spinning) track, Shahzad played very positive cricket. What we saw today was the real Shahzad, unfortunately it came in the last match."

Afghanistan upset Sri Lanka by 91 runs before thumping Bangladesh by a big 136-run margin to enter the Super Four Stage, where they narrowly lost to Pakistan by three wickets and to Bangladesh by three runs -- both in last over finishes.

Their heroics, Asghar believes, have sent warnings to major nations for the World Cup 2019, to be held in England from May 30 to July 14 next year.

"We can hold our heads high and this performance gives us pride," said Asghar after the India game in Dubai. "Remember, this is a warning for the World Cup teams."


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