'We can win the Asia Cup' - Asghar Afghan confident of Afghanistan lifting the silverware

Afghanistan will be aiming for their maiden Asia Cup title this year when they go up against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the group stage of the tournament. Their first match against Sri Lanka started on a high note as the bowlers went on a wicket-taking spree, thanks in huge part to the fielders as well, who contributed to the run-outs.

The team rose above the odds. Though being backed by a heartbreaking defeat against Ireland in their recent T20I series, Afghanistan players showed great grit and determination when they faced off against the in-form Sri Lankan line-up. As the team works towards a strong goal, former team member Asghar Afghan believes that the team can go on to win the cup.

Asghar, back in 2020, had said that Afghanistan can win the Asia Cup, and while speaking on BatBricks7 Presents Run Ki Runneeti show on CricTracker, he said: “I still believe that Afghanistan can win the Asia Cup, and I would favour them because our boys are very much experienced in the T20 format, especially when they play in Dubai. The current form of the team and the combination (of players) that they’re deploying are good. Though Sri Lanka has played more matches than us, our preparation is very strong.”

Hope, they play with the belief that they can win: Asghar Afghan

“One of the strengths of our players is that they adapt and adjust to the conditions quickly. I hope they win this time, and I’ll wish that they enter the tournament with the mindset of winning it, and not just playing it. Because we played the World Cup in Dubai too, and have had a good amount of experience. If they play with the belief that they can win, then no other team would be able to tackle them. It’s just that the players should have the belief that they can do this,” he added.

After Afghanistan’s campaign opener against Sri Lanka, they will be facing Bangladesh in their next game. If the team manages to return with favourable results, then they assure their place in the top two spots of their group and will make their way into the Super 4.