Rashid Khan Thanks Fans For Their Support In First T20I Against Bangladesh In Dehradun

The game of cricket is nothing less than a religion in this cricket-obsessed nation. The fans treat the players like demigods and back them in every situation. But despite such obsession with the cricketers, Sunday saw a different facet of the Indian fans.

Afghanistan were hosting Bangladesh in the first T20I at their adapted home Dehradun. And the players were in for a huge surprise when they walked in to lock horns. The stadium was jam-packed as the fans came in large numbers to support the players. Afghanistan went on to win the game by 45 runs. Their talismanic spinner Rashid Khan once again starred with the ball and won the Man of the Match award.

After the game, the 19-year old took to Instagram to thank the fans for their support, writing:

“First match MOM. Well done boys. Thanks to all fans in Dehradun who came in large number for support. Love you all.”

Batting first, Afghanistan scored 167 for 8 in the allotted 20 overs. Asked to bat first, Afghanistan were off to a slow start. However, the momentum shifted in their favour towards the end of their innings when they slammed 52 off the last three overs.  Samiullah Shenwari (36 off 18) and Shafiqullah Shafiq (24 off 8) finished off the proceedings with the bat strongly to fire Afghanistan to a competitive total. The bowlers then came out all guns blazing to bowl out Bangladesh for just 122.

At 80 for 3 in ten overs, Bangladesh were comfortably placed before Rashid Khan was introduced in the attack.  On his first two balls, the leggie accounted for Mushfiqur Rahim and Sabbir Rahman to all but seal the visitors’ fate. He went on to finish the game with stunning figures of 3 for 13 off his 4 overs.

Speaking after the game, he said:

“It was about keeping everything simple, what I’ve done in last two-three months. I don’t have any specific plan. I keep it simple. Just to bowl little bit back of a length, not too full. I’m just enjoying myself, that is the key thing. It was a good surface, the ball was gripping, little bit dew was there. We have just played IPL. That’s the biggest stage. If you perform well there, it gives you the confidence.”