Star Afghanistan cricketer Rashid Khan said he may pull out of future editions of the Big Bash League in response to Australia's decision to opt out of an upcoming series against Afghanistan in the UAE.
The men's team were due to face their Afghan counterparts in three ODI games in March following their tour to India.
Cricket Australia announced the decision citing further restrictions on women's and girls' rights imposed by the Taliban government.
The move has infuriated the Afghanistan board and players alike.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board said it was “extremely disappointed and saddened by the pathetic statement” from Cricket Australia and it would complain to the International Cricket Council, while also consider bringing back its players who are competing in the Big Bash league T20 tournament.
“Cricket has played a significant role in promoting unity and national pride in Afghanistan,” the board said. “After years of war and conflict, cricket has helped to bring people together and provide a sense of normalcy to the country. It has also been an important source of hope and inspiration for all Afghans, particularly young people.”
On his part, Rashid, who plays for Adelaide Strikers, said if Australia does not want to play cricket with Afghans, it makes no sense for his compatriots to play in the BBL.
"I am really disappointed to hear that Australia have pulled out of the series to play us in March," Rashid said on Twitter. "I take great pride in representing my country, and we have made great progress on the world stage. This decision from CA sets us back in that journey. If playing vs Afghanistan is so uncomfortable for Australia, then I wouldn't want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence in the BBL. Therefore, I will be strongly considering my future in that competition."
Pace bowler Naveen-ul-Haq also expressed his willingness to pull out of the BBL where he plays for the Sydney Sixers.
"When a country is going through so much in place (of) being supportive you want to take the only reason of happiness from them," he tweeted.
The National's picks
4.35pm: Tilal Al Khalediah
5.10pm: Continous
5.45pm: Raging Torrent
6.20pm: West Acre
7pm: Flood Zone
7.40pm: Straight No Chaser
8.15pm: Romantic Warrior
8.50pm: Calandogan
9.30pm: Forever Young
Muslim Council of Elders condemns terrorism on religious sites
The Muslim Council of Elders has strongly condemned the criminal attacks on religious sites in Britain.
It firmly rejected “acts of terrorism, which constitute a flagrant violation of the sanctity of houses of worship”.
“Attacking places of worship is a form of terrorism and extremism that threatens peace and stability within societies,” it said.
The council also warned against the rise of hate speech, racism, extremism and Islamophobia. It urged the international community to join efforts to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Banned items
Dubai Police has also issued a list of banned items at the ground on Sunday. These include:
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Political flags or banners
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Bikes, skateboards or scooters
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How tumultuous protests grew
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- Unlike previous French demonstrations there was no trade union or organised movement involved
- Demonstrators responded to online petitions and flooded squares to block traffic
- At its height there were almost 300,000 on the streets in support
- Named after the high visibility jackets that drivers must keep in cars
- Clashes soon turned violent as thousands fought with police at cordons
- An estimated two dozen people lost eyes and many others were admitted to hospital
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