ODI World Cup 2023

‘This is their yard now’ – Gautam Gambhir’s touching message inspires heartfelt response from Afghanistan’s star bowler

Afghanistan’s remarkable performance in the World Cup 2023 caught the attention of former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir, who was thoroughly impressed with their recent display against Pakistan. In what was a significant upset, Afghanistan convincingly defeated Pakistan, marking its first-ever win over its neighbouring rivals in ODI cricket. This win pushed Pakistan to the edge of elimination in the tournament and extended their winless run.

Gautam Gambhir, known for his no-nonsense approach, celebrated Afghanistan’s victory on his Instagram account. He praised the Afghan team and proclaimed that they were no longer the underdogs in the World Cup. Gambhir’s message highlighted the incredible strides Afghanistan has made in international cricket and underscored their newfound status as strong contenders. “No longer the underdogs! This is their yard now!” Gambhir said in his post. Gambhir’s post also triggered a heartwarming reaction from pacer Naveen-ul-Haq in the comments section.

The match in Chennai saw Afghanistan’s bowler, Naveen-ul-Haq, play a pivotal role, securing two crucial wickets and proving to be a challenge for the Pakistan side. The Pakistani team posted a competitive total of 282/7 in their 50 overs, thanks to their openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, both of whom notched up half-centuries.

In the pursuit of this target, Afghanistan’s batsmen, especially Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi, excelled, ensuring their team’s victory by eight wickets. The Pakistan bowling attack, including Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali, struggled to make inroads against the solid Afghan batting lineup.

Afghanistan’s remarkable rise in international cricket is on full display at the World Cup.

Gambhir’s words on social media resonated with many cricket fans, and it was a significant moment in cricket diplomacy when Afghan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq shared a warm hug with former Indian captain Virat Kohli during the tournament. This gesture served to diffuse tensions between the two, which had arisen during the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League.

Gautam Gambhir’s acknowledgement of Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket, coupled with the display of sportsmanship between players from different countries, reaffirms the universal appeal and camaraderie of cricket beyond borders. Afghanistan’s success in the World Cup is a testament to their growth as a cricketing nation and a reminder that in cricket, the underdog can often emerge as a real force to be reckoned with.