'Nothing can beat the commitment to play for Afghanistan' - Rashid Khan settles country vs club debate

Star Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has managed to impress one and all with his unique bowling abilities ever since he first burst onto the scene in 2015. Apart from bamboozling the best batters in the world, Khan is also known for his power-hitting abilities lower down the order, especially in the death overs.

Lately, the 23-year-old has clarified his stand on prioritizing franchise cricket and giving due importance to the national team. It is to be noted that Rashid Khan plays franchise cricket across the globe but, he has been straightforward in admitting that his country Afghanistan has given him fame and fortune and therefore, he would not compromise when it comes to playing for the nation.

I came into the various leagues by representing Afghanistan first, says Rashid Khan

“I came into the various leagues by representing Afghanistan first. Hence, the country is always first for me. Whatever you do in life, you can never forget your country”, said Rashid Khan while speaking to News18.

“Whenever it (the choice) is between country or club, there is never a confusion for me. Had I not played for Afghanistan no one would have known me. It is my country Afghanistan which has given me everything. When your country needs you and if you don’t step -up then it is not fair. And everyone knows nothing can beat the commitment for your country,” he added.

Back in February, the leggie had given preference to playing for Afghanistan against Bangladesh over the PSL 2022 final between Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars. He was a part of Lahore who eventually went on to beat the Multan Sultans by 42 runs to win their maiden title. He is currently representing Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022.

Khan was asked this question after many of the players from South Africa and New Zealand decided to skip national duties to participate in the ongoing IPL as both teams are fielding new and inexperienced players in the respective bilateral series against Bangladesh and the Netherlands respectively.

The key players from both sides who are a part of IPL 2022 include the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie Van der Dussen, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Glenn Phillips, etc.