Throngs of Afghans poured into the streets across the nation to celebrate their men’s cricket team advancing to the T20 World Cup semi-finals for the very first time. The jubilation spread throughout the Taliban-controlled country, with people in Kabul, Khost, Jalalabad, and beyond reveling in the team’s thrilling win against Bangladesh.
Rashedullah, a resident of Khost province in the southeast, expressed his optimism, saying, “This achievement has injected hope into the disillusioned youth.”
Male fans celebrated their victory Tuesday. Pic: AP
However, notably absent from the celebration were women, as the Taliban continues to prohibit them from participating in cricket. The Taliban’s resurgence in 2021 marked a return to power, marking an end to two decades of progress in women’s rights and economic opportunities in Afghanistan.
Cricket now serves as a rare source of solace for many Afghan men and has even found acceptance among the Taliban regime.
Signs of Hope amid Adversity
The victory brings a moment of joy to a nation grappling with a slew of natural calamities, compounded by an economic downturn due to international banking restrictions and dwindling aid following the Taliban’s resurgence, which has led to significant restrictions on women’s rights, including education and movement.
The acting foreign minister of the Taliban administration, Amir Khan Muttaqi, took the opportunity to congratulate the cricket team’s captain, Rashid Khan, recognizing the team’s inspiring performance as a beacon of hope for the youth.
Following Afghanistan’s nail-biting victory over Bangladesh by eight runs in St. Vincent, Shah Mohammad, a 42-year-old from Kabul, lauded the team, stating, “I am at a loss for words to describe my elation at this moment. It is a monumental triumph for all Afghans.”
Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan, centre, embraces teammate Gulbadin Naib as they celebrate after defeating Bangladesh by eight runs. Pic: AP
As the match aired at 5 am in Afghanistan, crowds gathered in public spaces to watch the game on large screens. Captured in photos and videos, legions of male fans reveled and cheered following the victory secured by the Duckworth-Lewis method.
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