World Cup 2023: Ibrahim Zadran dedicates Player of the Match award to ‘people whom Pakistan sent back to Afghanistan’

Afghanistan opening batter Ibrahim Zadran dedicated his Player of the Match award to ‘people whom Pakistan sent back to Afghanistan’ following their win at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Afghanistan beat Pakistan by 8 wickets to register their second win in the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

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Speaking after the match, Zadran said he’s very happy for himself and his nation after their historic win in Chennai. Afghanistan chased down 283 runs to grab just their third win in the history of ODI World Cups.

“First of all, I am very thankful to the almighty that I performed well in this kind of big tournament. I wanted to go there and bat longer to score runs for my side. I feel very glad for myself and for my country,” said Zadran.

He went on to say that he’s been playing with Rahmanullah Gurbaz since their under-16 days and has formed a great understanding with him. The two batters stitched a 130-run stand for the opening wicket to pile pressure on Pakistan in the second innings.

“Many times I and Gurbaz added big partnerships. We have a good understanding between us. We have played together since the Under-16 stages. He is a good motivator,” Zadran added.

Finally, Zadran dedicated his POTM award to the people whom Pakistan sent back to Afghanistan. Zadran scored 87 runs off 113 balls, hitting 10 boundaries against Pakistan.

“I want to dedicate this player of the match award to those people whom Pakistan have sent back to Afghanistan,” said Zadran.

With this win, Afghanistan climbed up to sixth position in the World Cup 2023 points table, while Pakistan remained stuck at fifth spot, ahead just on the basis of a superior net run-rate.

They will now face Sri Lanka at the MCA Stadium in Pune in their next World Cup 2023 match on Monday, October 30.