Dream to play international cricket in Afghanistan: Rashid Khan

Afghanistan’s ace spinner Rashid Khan recently revealed his wish to play in front of his home crowd. Despite Afghanistan's remarkable achievements on the field in the recent past, the country’s political instability and infrastructural limitations have kept international matches away from its soil.

During a recent interaction at a Dubai event, the 25-year-old spoke about the significance of playing at home, something that remains a dream despite his team's full member status since 2017. 

"That's in FTP for now. But when the time comes, it’s only then you will know whether it’s happening. There have been so many games scheduled in Afghanistan... but they have never taken place. But hopefully it happens. It's good for cricket and good for Afghanistan," said Rashid.

Hopefully it happens in future: Rashid Khan

Since receiving the Test status, Afghanistan has hosted matches in India, the UAE, Qatar, and Sri Lanka. The leg-spinner didn’t express how much it would mean to him personally, and wishes that it is fulfilled before he retires.

"Well, if it eventually happens, that will be a kind of dream to play international cricket in Afghanistan. I hope that comes before I retire from the sport. That's something which I dream of playing in front of my home crowd. So, hopefully, that happens in the future.” Rashid added.

Meanwhile, the Taliban's return to power in 2021 has raised concerns over Afghanistan's sporting future. Restrictions on women's participation in sports have gained massive criticism, and security concerns have discouraged top-tier teams from touring.

As a result, Afghanistan’s matches have been played across various adopted homes. Notably, the team was set to play a Test against New Zealand, in Greater Noida, India; however, the game was washed out without a ball being bowled due to a poorly maintained outfield.