Pakistan and Afghanistan’s rivalry in international cricket has been defined not just by world‑class action on the pitch but also by a myriad of crowd‑trouble incidents off it—prompting Rashid Khan to remind both sets of fans of the bigger picture.
As Pakistan gear up to face Afghanistan in the opening game of the UAE tri‑series in Sharjah tonight, Rashid has delivered a strong message, urging supporters to leave behind the hostility that marred the same fixture in 2022.
That night three years ago still lingers in memory. Pakistan edged Afghanistan by one wicket in a nail‑biting finish, but the drama spilled beyond the boundary ropes. Clashes broke out in the stands between rival supporters, prompting the PCB to lodge a protest with the ICC. Then‑chairman Ramiz Raja condemned the incident as “hooliganism,” while Sharjah police detained several fans to defuse the chaos.
But Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s talismanic captain, hopes it doesn’t come to that.
“Cricket brings unity; it brings people and nations together,” Rashid said in his appeal. “It’s just a game, and it should be enjoyed that way. I want fans to come, support their teams, and leave with good memories. This game is about entertainment, not fights.”
Matches between the two teams have been charged from the start, and political relations between the countries have only strained further since, forcing organizers to take no chances this time. Separate seating arrangements for Pakistan and Afghanistan supporters have been introduced at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and security officials are on high alert to prevent any repeat of those ugly scenes.
Rashid Khan’s Afghanistan could face Pakistan three times in one week—starting tonight—with a potential clash in the upcoming Asia Cup also on the cards.
For fans in Sharjah and beyond, the tri‑series offers a competitive build‑up to the Asia Cup. For Rashid Khan, it’s also a chance to remind everyone that the true spirit of cricket lies in joy, not hostility.