Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh to qualify for the semis where they'll face South Africa.
India spinner R Ashwin came in support of Afghanistan’s Gulbadin Naib who is facing some heat for his alleged fake injury in the crucial T20 World Cup 2024 match against Bangladesh recently.
With Bangladesh two runs behind the DLS par score and drizzle commencing, Afghanistan's coach Jonathan Trott instructed his players to slow down the game, causing Naib to collapse holding his hamstring.
Ashwin recognized concerns that Naib should be disciplined but highlighted that Naib's actions were motivated by a desire to help his side advance to the semi-finals.
The Indian spinner had even jokingly commented on social media, writing, "Red card for Gulbadin Naib." After Afghanistan secured their semi-final spot, Naib responded to Ashwin with a cryptic reply: "Kabi Khushi kabi gham main huta hai hamstring."
"Gulbadin Naib fell that way. Everyone said that is a penalizable offense. But what the hell, man? The guy is playing for his country, trying to win a World Cup, qualify," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin also lauded the Afghan players' dedication and unity during the ongoing T20 World Cup. He lauded the team's enthusiasm and camaraderie under Rashid Khan's guidance.
"In Afghanistan, it is not just momentum. It is a country with so much hope. They are playing for one another. This playing for one another, we can say a thousand things about it. We can say it to so many people. Doesn't India play for one another? For the badge? Of course. But Afghanistan, at this stage of their cricketing journey, are playing for one another like I have never seen anything like this," said Ashwin.
Afghanistan will face South Africa in the first semi-final in Trinidad on June 26.