Rashid Khan, the Afghanistan cricket team's captain and a celebrated international player, has intensified his protest against Pakistan following recent airstrikes in Afghanistan that resulted in the death of civilians, including three Afghan cricketers. Khan has removed "Lahore Qalandars," his Pakistan Super League (PSL) team, from his social media bio, signaling a strong statement of solidarity with his country.
The move follows reports of Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan's Paktika province, which led to the tragic deaths of several civilians and three local cricketers. The deceased players were identified as Kabeer, Sibghatullah, and Haroon. These cricketers were reportedly attacked after returning from a friendly match in Sharana, the provincial capital.
Khan has been associated with the Lahore Qalandars since 2020, even winning three titles with them. Until recently, his social media bio proudly displayed his affiliations with the Afghanistan National Cricket Team, Gujarat Titans (IPL), Adelaide Strikers (BBL), and Lahore Qalandars (PSL). Now, the Lahore Qalandars are conspicuously absent.
In addition to his bio change, Khan has publicly condemned the airstrikes, describing them as "immoral and barbaric" and a "grave violation of human rights". He expressed his sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, including women, children, and young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation. "It is absolutely immoral and barbaric to target civilian infrastructure," Khan stated.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has also taken a firm stance, announcing its withdrawal from the upcoming tri-series in Pakistan, which was scheduled to be played in Lahore and Rawalpindi from November 17 to 20. The ACB called the attack a "cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime".
This series of events unfolds amidst escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, marked by deadly border clashes. Recently, Afghanistan accused Pakistan of violating a ceasefire and launching airstrikes in Paktika province. Afghanistan has also said that they killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in overnight border operations, in response to repeated violations of its territory and airspace. Pakistan's army gave a far lower casualty figure, reporting 23 troops killed.
The removal of the Lahore Qalandars from Rashid Khan's bio is more than just a symbolic gesture; it's a powerful statement that highlights the deep-seated emotions and escalating tensions between the two nations. It remains to be seen whether Khan will withdraw from the next Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. His decision is a setback for the PSL and the franchise.
Khan's actions have resonated throughout the cricket world, with many Afghan cricketers and citizens expressing their support and solidarity.
