‘Maintain peace,’ requests Rashid Khan before Pak vs Afg clash

ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan has appealed to fans to show restraint and uphold the spirit of cricket ahead of the T20I tri-nation series opener against Pakistan on Friday.

Rashid’s call comes against the backdrop of the 2022 Sharjah clash, when crowd trouble marred Pakistan’s one-wicket victory over Afghanistan.

That match saw violent scenes in the stands, prompting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to lodge a protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC). Several Afghan fans were detained but later released, and tensions have lingered since amid strained political ties.

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Addressing at a press conference, Rashid Khan said: “My message to everyone who comes to the stadium is that cricket brings unity. It gets the nations together. It shows the right message, the peace message. It brings people and nations together.

“This game is all about enjoyment, we play it to entertain the fans. I urge everyone to come, support their teams respectfully, and enjoy every moment of the match.”

The organisers of the tri-nation series – featuring Afghanistan, Pakistan and hosts United Arab Emirates (UAE) – have put in place strict security measures for today’s match.

Just like in the 2023 UAE series, separate seating arrangements have been made for supporters of both sides.

Looking ahead, Rashid Khan insisted there were no favourites in the short tri-nation series. “No team is favourite, especially in T20Is. One or two players can completely change the game. Everyone will be aiming to deliver their best performances.”

The tri-nation series will run until September 7 and is seen as a crucial build-up to the Asia Cup 2025, which begins in the UAE on September 9.

Each team will face the other twice, with the top two sides meeting in the final at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on September 7.

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Pakistan currently lead the head-to-head record against Afghanistan 4-3 in T20Is, with their contests often producing high drama, especially in front of passionate expatriate crowds in the UAE.

Web Desk