Former Afghanistan skipper Asghar Afghan explained the reason behind his decision to quit international cricket in the middle of his team’s T20 World Cup 2021 campaign.
The veteran mentioned this while talking to commentator Alan Wilkins after Afghanistan’s resounding win over Namibia in Abu Dhabi on Sunday afternoon in Abu Dhabi.
The 33-year-old even broke down while he spoke and addressed the Afghanistan fans over his call to hang the boots.
“I want to give chance to youngsters now. It is the right time for the youngsters come forward. Most of the people asked to continue till the end of the tournament. But I thought this is the right time after the loss in the last game. There are plenty of memories. This is tough for me.”
he said on host broadcaster Star Sports.
Asghar had made his retirement public a day earlier when he confirmed in a video message over social media that he will be calling it quits after the game against the Namibian side.
The experienced cricketer was in his element on the day in Abu Dhabi scoring afree-flowingg 31 off 23 balls to help push Afghanistan to a score of 160/5 in their 20 overs. Later, they made short work of the opposition batting unit and allowed them to reach only 98/9 in the run-chase.
A huge win not only pushed Afghanistan to second in the Group 2 Super 12 points table but also further boosted their net run rate, which shall come in handy in case they are tied for one of the semi-final slots with other teams.
In his parting speech, Asghar thanked his nation for support throughout his career and in the tournament so far and urged them to continue filing in the stands for his team in this T20 World Cup.
Asghar had a remarkable contribution to Afghanistan as captain and middle-order bat. He played six Tests, 114 ODIs and 75 T20Is and was instrumental, with his leadership and batting exploits, in the incredible rise of Afghanistan cricket.
