Australia were supposed to play Afghanistan in a 3-match T20I series in the UAE in August 2024, but postponed the series. Cricket Australia backed their decision by stating how poorly women are treated in Afghanistan.
Afghanistan leg spinner, Rashid Khan, expressed his frustration regarding the cancelation of the series. In an interview with PTI, he explained how all Afghani players wanted to play cricket for their country as it brings happiness for the people.
It's not a cricketing reason or matter that you think about it, it is about two governments and as a player you can't do anything about it. What we can do is whenever we get an opportunity to play cricket, we go with full pride while representing our country. Rashid Khan said
He was asked if he ever spoke about the cancelation of the series with any of his Australian friends. Khan said he did not have the time to discuss this with any of them, especially as none of them have control over the situation.
Australia had earlier canceled an ODI series with Afghanistan in March 2023 for the same reasons, with Khan threatening to boycott the BBL. Naveen-ul-Haq had done the same and called them out on Instagram during the 2023 World Cup.
Rashid Khan talks about road to recovery after surgery
Rashid Khan was forced to pull out of the 2023/24 Big Bash League due to a back surgery and missed the T20I series with India as well. Khan spoke about how hard the recovery period was, but ensured he was relaxed.
The main focus for the first four months was on getting back on track, it is hard when you are not playing but these are things which are attached to your career, and it is important as a player that you take that process, you make sure that you look after yourself. Rashid Khan said
Khan made his comeback against Ireland in a three-match T20 series, picking up 8 wickets in three matches. Now playing in the IPL, he has made an impact by taking 6 wickets and a match-winning innings against Rajasthan Royals.
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