After Rashid Khan’s expensive spell against England in the World Cup 2019, where he conceded 110 runs in nine overs, the Afghan international became the most expensive bowler in a World Cup match and second most expensive bowler in ODI cricket.
Adding to Rashid’s wretchedness, England strolled on 148 runs knock by their record six hitter and skipper Eoin Morgan after which they put up a total of 397/6 in 50 overs.
In an unattainable run chase, Afghanistan managed 247/8 in 50 overs, all thanks to Hashmatullah’s 76 in 100 balls. After beating Afghanistan by 150 runs the host England once again claimed the number one spot in the points table.
Rashid Khan, who was once contemplated as the most daunting spinner for Afghanistan became a subject to mockery for trolls on social media. In no time, Rashid Khan started recieving criticisms for his performance which spurred a meme fest on Twitter.
Nevertheless, cricketers from around the globe came to Rashid Khan’s rescue, asking the fans to cool down.
Rubbish tweet. Rather than trying to be funny why not be respectful to someone that has done so much for cricket and especially associate members 🤬 https://t.co/0z3F8KiS82
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) June 18, 2019
"He is a world class bowler & a delight to watch. Everyone has bad days in our sport,” said Stuart Broad.
Englands all rounder Luke Wright also came fourth and slammed Iceland cricket for taking a troll at Rashid Khan.
"We've just heard that Rashid Khan has scored Afghanistan's first century of the #CWC19! Wow! 110 from 56 balls. The most runs ever scored by a bowler in the World Cup or something. Well batted young man.#ENGvAFG #AFGvENG," tweeted Ireland Cricket.
We’ve just heard that Rashid Khan has scored Afghanistan’s first century of the #CWC19! Wow! 110 from 56 balls. The most runs ever scored by a bowler in the World Cup or something. Well batted young man. #ENGvAFG #AFGvENG pic.twitter.com/3vklzCeIJt
— Iceland Cricket (@icelandcricket) June 18, 2019
What on earth is the pitch made of? There should be a balanced competition between the bat and the ball. You feel sad when the balance is disturbed. #RASHIDKHAN’s bowling stats in the match is a shocker! #ENGvAFG #CWC19
— Pragyan Prayas Ojha (@pragyanojha) June 18, 2019
"What on earth is the pitch made of? There should be a balanced competition between the bat and the ball. You feel sad when the balance is disturbed. #RASHIDKHAN's bowling stats in the match is a shocker,” tweeted Pragyan Ojha.
Agreed. Setting the bench mark for Leg Spin Bowlers around the world he is... @rashidkhan_19 https://t.co/1lsPXNGjzZ
— Ish Sodhi (@ish_sodhi) June 18, 2019
Lack of respect this.... https://t.co/KLcweDIfiX
— Jason Gillespie 🌱🌈 (@dizzy259) June 18, 2019
Apart from these players New Zealand’s Ish Sodhi and former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie also joined in support of Rashid Khan.
Afghanistan will go head to head with India in their next match of the World Cup on Saturday at Southamton, India remains unbeaten going into this clash.