I derive energy from my countrymen's support: Rashid Khan

Afghanistan bowler Rashid Khan returned to form in the game against the Kings XI Punjab yesterday. He bowled wonderfully in his four overs spell as he gave away only 16 runs in the middle part of the innings. The leg-spinner also picked up an important wicket that of Eoin Morgan and helped the Sunrisers restrict the Kings XI Punjab 26 runs short of their total.

Rashid and Mohammad Nabi of Afghanistan were picked up during the auctions by the defending champions which is quite a thing to be proud of for the entire country. And Rashid is doing justice to his selection by performing wonderfully for the franchise. The player spoke about the support he gets from his country and the people there and said it helps him deliver in the matches.

“The whole of Afghanistan is watching this league. The way they are supporting us both, me and (Mohammed) Nabi, it is just amazing. The prayers of our people back home help me and whenever we have a game, they all pray for us”

“Their back up, their support really helps me and gives me energy”

He also gave a message for the youngsters and future stars of Afghanistan asking them to never stop in their quest to become stars and to work hard.

“It is my message for youngsters of Afghanistan to work hard. It does not matter whether you are from Associate or other team, just do your best, you will get your achievements.”

The 18-year-old also heaped praise on Muttiah Muralitharan and said that the Sri Lankan has helped him a lot during the course of the Indian Premier League.

“Actually, most of the pitches in Asia, they are good for spinners. I have been working a lot with my coaches, especially Muttiah Muralitharan, he is the best spinner in the world. He has been helping and giving me all the confidence to just go out there and give my best.”

According to the rising star, the Indian Premier League is a great platform to learn many things as one gets to share the dressing room with big names from all over the world. He is also preparing himself for the longer formats of the game he said.

“It makes a big difference. Playing in IPL alongside some of the big names and big coaches and getting their experience will help me a lot. I am just trying my best to get their experiences to do my best. In future, I will work hard for longer format games. Mentally I am preparing myself for that.”