Shahid Afridi defends Taliban, says they came with ‘positive frame of mind’
- Shahid Afridi said the Taliban have come with a more “positive frame of mind”
- He said the militants are allowing women to work and also like cricket
- "We haven’t seen these things from them previously, which are very positive," he said
Former Pakistan
captain Shahid Afridi is no stranger to controversy. From on-field altercations
to a string of controversies, the 44-year-old has never been away from the
limelight over his illustrious career.
The former
all-rounder has once again raised eyebrows with a controversial remark – this time
supporting the Taliban after the militants took control of Afghanistan, saying
they have come with a more “positive frame of mind”.
“The Taliban have come with a very positive frame
of mind this time. We haven’t seen these things from them previously, which are
very positive,” he said during an interaction with reporters.
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“They are
allowing ladies to work, in politics and other jobs. They are also supporting
cricket, they (Afghanistan) would have played a series against us in Sri Lanka
but I guess the COVID situation prevented it from happening. So, I think the
Taliban like cricket very much.”
The star cricketer also hinted at his retirement, saying the next edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) may be his last and that he would love to play for the Quetta Gladiators.
The Taliban
took control of Afghanistan earlier this month after the US announced their
withdrawal from the war-torn country. Since then, hundreds of thousands have rushed
to the Hamid Karzai International Airport in the capital city of Kabul in a
desperate attempt to flee the country.
Also Read | Explained: What does US troop withdrawal mean for Afghanistan?
However,
not everyone has been able to make it out, with even the United States leaving
behind nearly 200 citizens in Afghanistan after the last of their evacuation
flights flew out of the country.
However,
despite the situation, the Afghanistan cricket board has said its team will
participate in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the UAE, which will start from October
17. “Cricket is doing very well,” ACB chief Shinwari told ESPNcricinfo earlier.
The cricket
team’s media manager had confirmed to ANI that there are no doubts regarding
their participation for the World Cup, adding that the board is also keen on a
tri-series involving Australia and West Indies ahead of the showpiece event.
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