Afghanistan’s eight-wicket loss to Bangladesh A in the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 triggered a wave of sharp, emotional, and at times divided reactions from Afghan cricket supporters across social media, with many focusing their criticism on selection choices and coaching decisions.
Doha| By Niaz Shinwari
While some fans described the result as a routine setback, most comments reflected frustration over what they viewed as avoidable mistakes. Many argued that the playing XI lacked balance, that key performers were benched without clear reasoning, and that poor shot selection under pressure contributed to the collapse.
Azizullah Hanafi urged calm, noting that Afghan players have the talent to beat any opponent. “Today simply wasn’t their day,” he said, congratulating Bangladesh supporters.
Others were far more direct. Shefaatullah Rahimi questioned both the coaching staff and selectors, criticizing the omission of Zubaid Akbari and describing the captain’s shot selection as “irresponsible.” Mirza Ahmad Wesal voiced similar concerns, saying the squad was overloaded with all-rounders and lacked specialist batters.
Supporter Mohammad Ebrahim Jan Agha argued that with stronger guidance from the coaching staff, the low total could still have been defended. “With a good coaching structure, they could have fought for this,” he wrote.
Another fan, Ali Khan, said the issues were obvious before the match. “The batting was never balanced. Ordinary people noticed it. How didn’t the selectors?”
Several fans also highlighted a psychological element in Afghanistan’s recent performances. Hameed Durrani pointed to pressure at the top of the order, saying: “Afghanistan players get under pressure once the opening batsman is out. They start taking dots, which creates problems and leads to bad scores. Someone needs to tell these guys to play fearless cricket and be brave. Sidiq is also coming under pressure when his partner struggles. He needs to control himself and carry on the game.”
Despite the criticism, some supporters reminded others that many of the selected players were those previously requested by the public.
AfghanAbdalyan will face Hong Kong, China in their final Group B match, with supporters calling for a more balanced lineup and a stronger approach to pressure situations.