THIS picture captures the heartbreaking moment Afghanistan star spinner Rashid Khan realised his team’s Asia Cup journey was over.
The cricketer appeared completely shattered after Afghanistan lost by just two runs to Sri Lanka at Pakistan’s Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.
AFPAfghanistan’s Rashid Khan shared a picture of the heartbreaking moment he realised his team would not qualify for the Asia Cup Super Four stage[/caption]
PAHis fans have come to his defence, telling him he ‘played like a champ’[/caption]
Despite his valiant efforts, the loss meant his team would not progress to the Super Four stage of this year’s Asia Cup.
The cricket superstar was left stranded at the non-striker’s end at 27 off 16 as he watched his team get bowled out.
He fell to his knees, later sharing his disappointment on X/Twitter: “In sport there are many ups and downs. You learn, grow and come back stronger.
“Thank you for always supporting us.”
His fans praised him for his efforts, with one writing: “You played like a champ, Rashid!”
Another user, from Pakistan, said: “You and your team have put in countless hours of hard work, and I always support those who work hard.
“You came so close to achieving such a high score in just 37 overs, which is no small feat. Inshallah!
“But yes, this match showed that Afghanistan’s cricket team is second to none.”
Others told Rashid to “cheer up” and reminded him he was “a legend”.
One said: “Chin Up Champion. It’s part of the Game. You did your best.”
Another wrote: “You tried so hard and got so far.
“But in the end it doesn’t even matter.”
And another: “My son yesterday was devastated seeing u like that!
“You will definitely comeback stronger from this.”
One person wrote that Rashid was a “winning player”, but sometimes time was not on his side.
They assured him: “Try again, you will surely win.”
Afghanistan was desperate to win Tuesday’s match and needed to chase a target of 292 in 37.1 overs, fighting hard but failing.
The game will be remembered for some time to come as the lead swung back and forth between teams throughout the match.
Sri Lanka will now meet India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in the knockout rounds scheduled to begin on Wednesday.
APRashid Khan (second left) with his teammates before Afghanistan lost to Sri Lanka on Tuesday[/caption]