Before their encounter on Friday, Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has delivered a poignant appeal to supporters of his country and Pakistan not to resort to violence or let emotions get the better of them.
The last time Afghanistan and Pakistan faced off in a World Cup match, a massive brawl erupted.
A plane with the flag “Justice For Balochistan” was sighted flying overhead during the first innings of their World Cup match, sparking a brawl outside Headingley, Leeds.
As a result, several fans were ejected from the stadium. When the two sides meet later tonight, Rashid Khan hopes to avoid a repeat of the situation (October 29).
2019 World Cup
“After the 2019 World Cup match, whatever happened shouldn’t have happened. But this is the kind of request to all the fans, whatever there is that comes at the end, at the end of the day this game gives lots of unity to the nations and brings them together, not to have those kinds of accidents. Rashid said
“I think it’s a request to all the fans to stay cool and calm and just enjoy the game. This game is all about enjoyment,” he added
So far in this tournament, no team has been defeated. It’s worth noting that this is Afghanistan’s first major competition test, whereas Pakistan has defeated the group’s two top contenders (India and New Zealand).
Playing against Pakistan has always been a good possibility, according to Rashid, with their recent matches being close.
Pakistan had to work hard to beat its rivals by three wickets in both the 2019 World Cup and the 2018 Asia Cup.
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