Except the dismal performance in the qualifiers of the Asia Cup, Afghanistan has been the most consistent side among the associate nations in the past couple of years. Therefore it is not a surprise that accolades are being showered on the Afghan team.
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In the list of their admirers, there has been a huge addition in the form of former ace Indian opener Virender Sehwag. Better known in India as ‘Viru’, Sehwag is known across the world for his swashbuckling batting at the top of the order. Viru has claimed that the Afghan team can upset any big team in the Super 10s of the competition.
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“I thought Zimbabwe had the upper hand because they are the most experienced international side, but Afghanistan surprised Zimbabwe. They beat them easily and qualified for the next round”, said the part-time right arm off-break bowler.
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In an interview, the two-time triple centurion said, “Maybe Afghanistan can upset a big team (in the Super 10s). Even if they don’t, it is still a boost for them to play against the likes of Sri Lanka, England, West Indies, South Africa. It’s a big boost for them to play against top sides. If they can win one out of four games, it will be a big achievement for them.”
Sehwag seems to have found a student of his kind in Afghan opener Mohammad Sehzad. He was also impressed with the all-round abilities of Mohammad Nabi. “Mohammad Shahzad played really well and gave good starts for them. Mohammad Nabi bowled and batted well. These two were the big contributors for Afghanistan and because of them they have qualified for the next round”, said the former batsman.
Afghanistan kick-off their Super 10 assignments against defending champions Sri Lanka on March 17 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. They also have England, South Africa, West Indies in their group. They reached the main stage of the tournament remaining unbeaten in the qualifiers.
Time will tell if they account for a big fish or just finish the engagements like an associate.
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