(Reuters) – The Afghanistan coach, Jonathan Trott, has stated that their recent landmark victory over Pakistan in the World Cup will have a far-reaching impact on Afghan cricket and will serve as an inspiration for future players. The Afghan batters approached their chase of the 283-run target with a focus on singles and doubles in order to alleviate the pressure, ultimately winning the match by eight wickets with six balls remaining. This triumph marked their second victory in five games, as well as their third-ever World Cup win.
Moreover, the win against Pakistan stands out because it was their first ever victory over their neighboring rivals in eight One Day International (ODI) matches. This win also represents Afghanistan’s first successful World Cup chase against a Test-playing nation.
“This victory will undoubtedly have a significant ripple effect,” Trott expressed to reporters. He emphasized the importance of the players remembering this match and passing on the lessons learned from it. Trott specifically praised Rehmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, acknowledging their 130-run opening partnership as the “turning point” of the game. He also commended Rahmat Shah’s contribution in steadying the match after the openers were dismissed, even though Shah had to combat cramps throughout his innings.
“Shah’s shot to hit a straight six truly broke the back of the game,” Trott remarked. Shah’s unbeaten 77 was crucial to the victory, with 45 runs scored through singles and doubles.
This recent triumph, combined with their previous win over defending champions England on October 15th, has allowed Afghanistan to climb from last place to sixth place in the standings. Their next match will be against Sri Lanka, currently in ninth place, scheduled for Monday.
Trott advised the players to savor these victories but to quickly shift their focus to the upcoming match against Sri Lanka in Pune. “Take the confidence gained from this win and direct it towards the Sri Lanka game,” he urged.
(Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
