Younis Khan has become the mentor of the Afghanistan cricket team during the Champions Trophy 2025, leading the team to significant successes, including a win against England. Former player Rashid Latif conveyed Khan’s choice to decline an offer from Pakistan, indicating no financial motives. This strategic move positions Afghanistan well for competition and underscores their growing stature in cricket.
Younis Khan has taken on the role of mentor for the Afghanistan cricket team during the Champions Trophy 2025. Notably, this appointment occurs as Afghanistan faces a crucial match against Australia. Khan’s mentorship has already proven effective, as evidenced by Afghanistan’s impressive victory over England, which has kept their tournament hopes alive.
Former cricketer Rashid Latif highlighted Khan’s significant decision to decline an opportunity to work with the Pakistan cricket team. Latif stated, “Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There will be no financial benefits here,” illustrating the selfless nature of Khan’s choice.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) aimed to strengthen its standing by appointing a veteran cricketer from the host nation during this tournament. ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan stated, “Since the Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan, it was required to assign a talented and experienced player as a mentor from the hosting country.”
This strategic approach has yielded positive results for Afghanistan in recent events. For example, they enlisted Ajay Jadeja during the 2023 ODI World Cup and Dwayne Bravo for the 2024 T20 World Cup, both of which produced commendable performances enhancing Afghanistan’s credibility in international cricket.
Afghanistan’s triumph against England was marked by Ibrahim Zadran’s outstanding performance, scoring 177 runs, and Azmatullah Omarzai’s impressive five-wicket haul, leading to a narrow eight-run victory. This achievement highlights Afghanistan’s emergence as a formidable competitor in the cricketing arena.
In summary, Younis Khan’s decision to mentor Afghanistan rather than Pakistan during the Champions Trophy 2025 signifies a pivotal moment for the team. His guidance has already contributed to notable successes, reinforcing Afghanistan’s reputation in international cricket. Their strategic appointments of experienced mentors reflect a broader commitment to growth and competitiveness, as evidenced by their recent victories.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
