Rashid Khan’s heroic performance, despite battling a hamstring injury, propelled Afghanistan to a historic series victory over South Africa. The leg-spinner’s remarkable figures of 9-1-19-5 dismantled the Proteas’ batting lineup, securing a 177-run triumph in Sharjah.
Khan’s determination to stay on the field stemmed from his belief that his contribution was crucial to Afghanistan’s success. Despite a month-long hamstring issue, he pushed through the pain, knowing that his presence could make a significant difference.
“I had a hamstring injury, but I tried my best to stay on the ground till the end,” Khan said. “I knew my contribution would be key, so I had to go for it.”
Khan’s injury woes have been a recurring theme lately. He missed the final week of the Hundred due to hamstring trouble and suffered a back niggle during Afghanistan’s domestic T20 league. He also missed the one-off Test against New Zealand.
On his 26th birthday, Khan’s hamstring flared up again while batting. However, he refused to be sidelined, continuing to bat and eventually finishing with six not out off 12 deliveries.
“The love for this game is just pushing you to play,” Khan said. “I thought I was able to bowl and stay in the field, so why not go for it?”
Afghanistan’s victory was marred by another injury concern, with half-centurion Rahmat Shah leaving the field with hamstring trouble. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed optimism that Shah’s injury was not serious.
“I talked with him, he’s good inshallah,” Shahidi said. “Hopefully he will be okay and play the other game.”
Afghanistan have clinched the series 2-0 but have one more match to play in Sharjah on Sunday. They will then have a break before their scheduled tour of Zimbabwe in December-January.
