Reports: Afghanistan players strictly told to keep their emotions in control during national anthem

Afghanistan kick started their T20 World Cup campaign against Scotland. Ahead of the match, when the national anthem was played, it was seen that several players including Mohammad Nabi were emotional. However, as per reports, the Taliban government has asked the players to keep their emotions on the field under control. After Afghanistan’s take over, the national flag has been changed and the national anthem is also banned in the country.

According to News9, the players met on Wednesday evening and decided that the instructions will be followed and that the focus should be kept on cricket. The sport recently witnessed some tough times owing to the political tensions in the country. Quite a few things have been affected in the nation after the Taliban take over and cricket is one of them.

When asked about playing in the World Cup, Afghanistan’s ace spinner Rashid Khan asserted that the team is aiming to play in a way that the fans can enjoy and celebrate. He also hoped that everything goes well ahead.

“Things are getting better now. Everything is becoming normal at home too. We can hope that everything goes well in the future also. We have come here as a team to play cricket and want to perform in a way that is celebrated there. This is something that is in our hands as players. We will try to do the same throughout the tournament.

“We will perform in a way that they can enjoy and celebrate. That’s our plan as a team and hope everything goes well,” Rashid said ahead of the Pakistan game.

Afghanistan outplayed Scotland in their opening fixture

Afghanistan locked horns with Scotland in their first game of the T20 World Cup 2021. The team put up an all-round show to dominate the proceedings. After having won the toss, the team decided to bat first at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Hazratullah Zazai (44) and Mohammad Shahzad (22) provided the team with a steady start. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (46) also made valuable contributions with the bat.

Further on, a half-century by Najibullah Zadran allowed Afghanistan to post a strong target of 191 for the opposition. The bowlers were clinical for the side as they ran through Scotland’s batting lineup. Rashid khan picked up four wickets whereas Mujeeb Ur Rahman accounted for five wickets to restrict Scotland for just 60 runs to win the game by 130 runs.