In Pakistan's airstrikes, not only did 8 lives, including 3 Afghan cricketers, tragically end, but 7 others were also wounded. This act has sparked grief and outrage in Afghanistan. The nation’s cricket star, Rashid Khan, delivered a fierce critique, deeming this act as "barbaric, unethical, and inhumane," outspokenly condemning Pakistan's actions.
Rashid Khan stated that targeting civilians and young athletes is utterly unacceptable, a gross violation of human rights. He also stands by the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s decision to withdraw from upcoming matches against Pakistan.
Also read: 'No Cricket with Pakistan; Nation’s Integrity Is Key...' Afghanistan Board Reacts to Pakistani Attack
Rashid took to social media to express his sorrow: "I am deeply saddened by the civilian casualties in Afghanistan due to Pakistani airstrikes. It's a tragedy that has claimed lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on a global stage."
In another message, Rashid emphasized, "Targeting civilian infrastructure is entirely unethical and barbaric. Such unlawful acts are severe human rights violations and should not be ignored."
Not holding back, Rashid confronted Pakistan publicly, stating, "I support the Afghanistan Cricket Board's withdrawal decision against Pakistan. I stand with my people during these challenging times, our national pride must always come first."
Also read: Pakistani Airstrike Kills 3 Afghan Cricketers in Paktika Province
Who were the 3 cricketers who died in the Pakistani attack? Three cricketers, Kabir, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, were among those killed in a Pakistani airstrike, which also injured 7 others. Following this incident, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) acted promptly by withdrawing from the upcoming triangular series with Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan scheduled for November.
ACB Mourns and Takes Immediate Action
In response to the deaths in Paktika province's military action, ACB shared a post expressing condolences for the demise of these players. The board regarded this as a significant loss for the nation's sports community, particularly cricket.
The ACB post detailed the sequence of events. The players were in Sharana, Paktika’s capital, for a friendly match. Upon returning home, they were attacked during a gathering in the Urgun district.
