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"It Wasn't Typical Abu Dhabi": Rashid Khan On Asia Cup Exit Despite Nabi Blitz

Soumyajit Dutta

Rashid Khan after match [Source: @karim_kuresi/X.com]Rashid Khan after match [Source: @karim_kuresi/X.com]

Afghanistan’s Asia Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after Sri Lanka chased down their target with eight balls to spare, sealing qualification to the Super Four alongside Bangladesh. Rashid Khan’s men bowed out of the tournament with just one win from three group-stage matches, despite being considered strong contenders for the title.

Rashid Khan Admits Defending 170 Was Tough

Skipper Rashid Khan admitted he was leaving with a heavy heart, but urged his side to focus on the positives. Speaking to reporters, he praised Mohammad Nabi’s explosive batting display, particularly his five sixes during a whirlwind knock of 60 off 22 balls that helped Afghanistan cross the 160-run mark. 

"The way we finished it was so special. To hit 5 sixes was unbelievable. We bowled not as good as we should have. It was pretty hard on that track," Rashid said.

However, Rashid also expressed regret that his team could not set a bigger target, despite the hard work they had put in during preparations.

"It wasn't the typical Abu Dhabi wicket. It was possible to chase 170-180. We had a great chance to chase 150 odd in the last game. But that's the nature of T20 cricket. We had great preparation for this. We had worked hard and trained hard. We made it to the semis of the T20 WC. We at least thought of making it to the next round here," Rashid concluded.

Sri Lanka Overpowered With The Bat

With the ball, Afghanistan saw contributions from Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Azmatullah Omarzai, Nabi and Noor Ahmad, who picked up one wicket each. But the bowling attack struggled to contain Sri Lanka’s batting power.

Kusal Mendis led the charge for Sri Lanka with an unbeaten 74 off 52 balls, guiding his side to victory. He was well supported in the latter stages by Kamindu Mendis as Sri Lanka comfortably secured their spot in the next round.

For Afghanistan, the exit marks another missed opportunity, while Sri Lanka will now carry their momentum forward into the Super Four.