Rashid Khan expressed deep disappointment after his team’s early exit from the 2025 ACC Men’s Asia Cup. Afghanistan lost to Sri Lanka by six wickets at Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday night and failed to proceed past the group stage, with the result also ensuring Bangladesh’s entry into the Super Fours.
In the post-match presentation, Rashid credited veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, saying, “We ended the inning in such a unique manner. 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.” Nabi’s late charge gave Afghanistan hope before their bowlers struggled to defend the score.
Rashid admitted his side fell short with the ball on a surface that offered little assistance to spinners. “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 explained.
The leg-spinner reflected on the team’s overall performance and their preparation for the tournament. “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,” he stated.
Rashid expressed surprise at Afghanistan’s failure to reach the next round despite consistent performances in recent global events. “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. I 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, analyse, and come back stronger,” he concluded.
Sri Lanka’s victory highlighted their dominance, while Afghanistan must now regroup and plan for future competitions after falling short of their Asia Cup ambitions.
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