The performance of Afghan cricket team is being lauded inside and outside the country. Despite the lowest security level and absence of facilities not only in cricket but also in other sports, Afghans have showed that they are 'no less' than any other country. On Friday, February 10, the Afghan cricket team played its first-ever one day match against experienced Pakistani cricket team in Sharjah, UAE.

Although Afghanistan lost by seven wickets, they gave a good account of themselves, scoring 195 and then capturing three early wickets before succumbing. The performance of Afghan cricketers impressed the Pakistan Team captain, Misbah ul Haq and he had to praise the spirit of Afghan players saying that they could give a tough time to other nations. Not only that the Taliban who once hated and discouraged sports, have said that they pray for success of Afghan cricket team.

The young players of Afghan cricket team are becoming a great source of hope for Afghan sports. Countries lying close to us i.e. India and Pakistan have made numerous fantastic records in this game. However, it seems like Afghans too are capable and competent. A glimpse at the short background of Afghan cricket team shows that how by time and again successes they have gone winning credits and hearts of the cricket lovers?

The war is lingering in Afghanistan. It has taken three precious decades of Afghans. The war has left Afghanistan with serious social, economical and political issues. Along with other sectors Afghan sports, too, suffered immensely.

But today besides men, Afghan women also take part sports showing the future window of peace and prosperity in Afghanistan. The victorious involvement of Afghans in sports is a clear indication of the fact that they want peace and democracy and hate extremism and terrorism.

What the world hears from Afghanistan are stories of fear, terror and brutality. It is sports that can alter the mindset of the world towards Afghanistan and can create a positive image of this country across the globe. Afghan sports whether football, cricket or other outdoor and indoor sports, need serious attention from the government side and encouragement from the public.