Fantasy Cricket

Younis Khan Rejected Pakistan to Join Afghanistan as Mentor: Rashid Latif

Prepend to the Content

Afghanistan once again proved their growing strength in world cricket by knocking England out of the Champions Trophy 2025. They secured a thrilling eight-run victory at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on February 27.

Younis Khan Chose Afghanistan Over Pakistan

While discussing the match on a talk show, Rashid Latif revealed that Younis Khan turned down an offer to join Pakistan’s coaching staff and instead chose to work with Afghanistan as a mentor.

“Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There will be no financial benefits here,” Latif told Geo News.

Afghanistan’s Batting Heroics

Afghanistan put up a brilliant batting display despite losing three wickets in the powerplay. Ibrahim Zadran led the charge with a magnificent 177 off 146 balls, smashing 12 fours and six sixes. Contributions from Hashmatullah Shahidi (40), Azmatullah Omarzai (41), and Mohammad Nabi (40) helped Afghanistan reach 325/7.

Jofra Archer (3 wickets) and Liam Livingstone (2 wickets) were England’s best bowlers.

England’s Chase Falls Short

England had a tough start, losing Phil Salt and Jamie Smith early. Ben Duckett (38) and Joe Root (106) tried to stabilize the innings, but Harry Brook and Jos Buttler failed to make big scores.

Root, however, held one end and scored his 16th ODI century, his first in almost five years. His 54-run partnership with Jamie Overton gave England hope, but Omarzai’s crucial wicket of Root in the final overs turned the game in Afghanistan’s favor.

England were eventually bowled out for 317, falling eight runs short of the target.

Afghanistan’s Rising Strength in World Cricket

Afghanistan’s win over England is another proof of their growth as a top cricketing nation. With Younis Khan as their mentor, they seem to be heading in the right direction. Fans will now eagerly watch how they continue their journey in the Champions Trophy 2025.

Story First Published at www.probatsman.com on 27 February 2025

More Stories

Read Original Content: Younis Khan Rejected Pakistan to Join Afghanistan as Mentor: Rashid Latif

ProBatsman

You Might Like
Leave a Reply