ICC World Twenty20 Teams
For the first time in the history of Afghanistan, their cricket team has qualified for a major international tournament. After winning the ICC World Twenty20 qualifier, Afghanistan earned themselves a right to play countries like India and South Africa. Having been in the ICC World Cricket League Division 5 just two years ago, alongside the likes of Jersey and Vanuatu, the team has rapidly risen up the rankings under the guidance of coach Kabir Khan. They achieved ODI status in 2009.
The ICC T20 World Cup qualifier took place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Afghan team entered the Last Four stage by defeating USA. Then in the next stage they needed to make sure that they finished among top two. In the Super Four stage, Afghanistan beat UAE by four wickets to advance to the main round.
The ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat was so happy with Afghanistan's display and the quality of cricket they showcased that he said, "Judging by what I have seen during this tournament, they will give some of the Full Members more than a few awkward moments during the event. For Afghanistan it will be an adventure into the unknown. One of the memorable aspects of this event has been the passionate support that Afghanistan have attracted."
In these times of strife in the country, a great motivational factor for Afghanistan people will be coming in the name of the Afghanistan cricket team if the team does well in the West Indies as well.
