Khawaja Laments Afghanistan's Absence from Australia Despite Historic Win

Australia's Test stalwart Usman Khawaja has expressed his disappointment over Afghanistan's inability to play in Australia, despite Afghanistan's historic 2024 T20 World Cup victory over his team.

Earlier this year, Cricket Australia (CA) canceled a bilateral series against Afghanistan due to the country's "marked deterioration" in the treatment of women and children under the Taliban regime. The decision left the Afghanistan cricketers perplexed, but Khawaja hailed them as an inspiration.

In response to a tweet by Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan celebrating their 21-run win over Australia, Khawaja tweeted: "Well done Brother. Better team on the day. You boys are an inspiration for so many back home and abroad. So sad we can't see you all play in Australia."

CA had canceled a planned bilateral series against Afghanistan in 2023 and 2024 due to the Taliban's restrictions on women's education and access to public spaces.

In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Afghanistan needed a win to stay alive and posted a total of 148. Australia's opening pair failed to deliver, and despite Glenn Maxwell's efforts, Afghanistan's Gulbadin Naib emerged as the hero with four wickets.

Afghanistan bundled out Australia for 127, securing their first T20 World Cup victory over the Aussies. If Afghanistan defeats Bangladesh in their final Super 8 clash and Australia loses to India, Afghanistan will advance to the semifinals.

Khawaja's comments highlight the complex relationship between sports and politics. While CA's decision was based on human rights concerns, it has deprived Australian fans of the opportunity to witness the rise of Afghanistan's talented cricket team.

Tags: #AfghanistanCricket, #T20WorldCup, #UsmanKhawaja, #CricketAustralia, #HumanRights