• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 07/04/2024
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In the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024, Afghanistan made history by reaching the semi-finals for the first time in their history. Under the leadership of Rashid Khan, Afghanistan showcased resilience, grit, and skill, drawing the attention and admiration of the global cricket fraternity.

Afghanistan’s journey to the semi-finals was nothing short of remarkable. Placed in a challenging Super Eight group alongside cricket powerhouses India and Australia, they defied expectations by securing victories against both Bangladesh and Australia. These crucial wins propelled them into the semi-finals, where they faced a strong South African side.

One of the most significant highlights of their campaign was the thrilling victory over Australia. This triumph boosted their confidence and caught the attention of Cricket Australia (CA). In a bid to maintain and strengthen bilateral relations, CA has expressed a commitment to keeping the cricketing ties with Afghanistan robust despite recent postponements of scheduled series.

In March 2024, Australia postponed the T20I series against Afghanistan that was scheduled for August, considering the country’s ongoing situation. This decision followed an earlier postponement of an ODI series. The delays were caused by extensive discussions with various stakeholders, including the Australian government, focusing on human rights concerns.

Australia have refused to play a bilateral series with Afghanistan because of the Taliban government’s stance on Women’s cricket.

There has been regular dialogue between CA and ACB on the matter and there is hope a resolution can be reached soon #IndianCricketTeam… pic.twitter.com/ZDsqpCMyyB

— Cricketism (@MidnightMusinng) July 3, 2024

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley emphasized the importance of their relationship with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB). “We hope for progress and will continue to discuss and maintain contact with the Afghanistan Cricket Board. They had a fantastic tournament with phenomenal players and played with great passion. Regarding our bilateral matches, we have consulted extensively with stakeholders, including the Australian government, and chose to postpone our last couple of series with Afghanistan on human rights grounds,” Hockley stated.

Also read Afghanistan Female Cricketers Seek ICC’s Support for Refugee Team in Australia

Hockley also underscored CA’s dedication to supporting the growth of cricket worldwide, including in Afghanistan. “We maintain a close relationship and regular dialogue with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and want to see cricket thrive worldwide for both men and women. We hope for progress and continue to discuss and maintain contact with the Afghanistan Cricket Board, aiming to resume bilateral cricket against Afghanistan in the future,” he added.