ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Afghanistan is ready to make their mark in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with their much-anticipated clash against South Africa on the horizon. As the team steps into this prestigious tournament, captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has expressed confidence in their preparation and ambitions.
### Confident Start for Afghanistan
Despite Afghanistan’s recent loss to New Zealand in a warm-up match, Shahidi remains undeterred. “Our aim in the warm-up games was to give everyone a chance and get them used to the conditions. We were not looking for results,” Shahidi explained during a press conference at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. With the team’s rigorous preparations in Dubai and the familiarity of local conditions, Afghanistan’s confidence is high.
Shahidi also reflected on Afghanistan’s recent series win against South Africa, where they triumphed 2-1 in Sharjah. “We have that confidence with us. We are not under pressure,” he added, emphasizing that the past matches are a source of optimism going into their first-ever Champions Trophy appearance.
### Aiming for Glory, Not Just Participation
Shahidi underscored the team’s ultimate goal: winning the Champions Trophy. “We are not here just to participate. We aim to win the final. We have played a lot of quality cricket, and we believe we can make it to the next round,” he said. This ambitious mindset comes on the back of a string of successful performances over the past two years, with the Afghan team now more seasoned and prepared than ever.
### Fan Support Fuels Confidence
The Afghan team’s strong fan base in Karachi has also been a significant morale booster. Shahidi mentioned the passionate support from Afghan and Pashtun communities in the city, noting, “Yesterday, there was a big crowd chanting for Rashid [Khan] and Nabi. It feels good and gives us confidence.” This support has been a powerful motivator, pushing the team to perform at their best on the international stage.
### Focused on the Game, Not Politics
Amid political tensions and calls for boycotts, Shahidi remained focused on the game at hand. “As sportsmen, our job is to play cricket. We don’t care what’s going on outside. We only control things inside the ground,” he said. This pragmatic approach underscores Afghanistan’s determination to leave distractions aside and focus solely on their cricketing aspirations.
### Looking to the Future
While Afghanistan’s cricketing journey has seen notable progress, including strong performances in previous World Cups, Shahidi emphasized that the team’s focus is firmly on the future. “Our aim is to improve day by day,” he remarked, outlining Afghanistan’s determination to challenge for the Champions Trophy title.
Shahidi also expressed hope for the return of international cricket to Afghanistan, highlighting the passionate local fanbase and the quality of facilities in the country. “I hope that day comes soon,” he concluded, looking forward to a future where Afghanistan’s cricketing culture thrives on the international stage.
As Afghanistan prepares for their clash against South Africa, the team’s optimism and resolve reflect their readiness to make an impact at the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
