Afghanistan could not meet expectations in the Asia Cup 2025. Rashid Khan’s men were knocked out in the group stage. The early exit has raised doubts about their reputation as the second-best team in Asia, a label often applied before the tournament.
Rashid Khan Clarifies on the “Second-Best Team” Tag
Speaking ahead of the first T20I against Bangladesh, Rashid Khan opened up about the much-debated tag. He made it clear that Afghanistan never called themselves Asia’s second-best side. Instead, he said the tag came from the media.
The spinner explained that Afghanistan’s strong performances in ICC tournaments had led to the label. He cited the 2023 ODI World Cup, the 2024 T20 World Cup, and the 2025 Champions Trophy. According to Rashid Khan, the wins against top teams earned them respect and the tag.
“We didn’t say we are the 2nd best team. The media says it. We performed in the CWC, CT25, and WT20. We beat the big teams. That’s why this tag is on,” Rashid Khan said at the press conference.
Afghanistan’s Mixed Fortunes in Asia
Despite past success, Afghanistan struggled in the Asia Cup 2025. They failed to progress beyond the group stage, leaving fans disappointed. The early exit has added pressure ahead of their next assignment.
Now, they prepare to face Bangladesh in a T20I series. Rashid Khan will once again lead the spin-heavy attack. Some senior players have been dropped from the series as Afghanistan seeks a fresh start.
Rivals Gain Momentum
While Afghanistan stumbled, its Asian rivals found form. Pakistan reached the Asia Cup final and showed signs of a comeback. Sri Lanka also played competitive cricket in the group stage. Both teams are working towards the T20 World Cup 2026.
In contrast, Afghanistan’s form dipped at the wrong time. Rashid Khan admitted that media narratives often shaped perceptions. He insisted that their ICC results remain proof of progress despite setbacks in regional tournaments.
Rashid Khan Stresses Big Wins
The Afghan skipper reminded everyone of Afghanistan’s victories over top cricketing nations in recent years. Those wins boosted their reputation on the global stage. He added that the tag of being Asia’s second-best team was never self-proclaimed but given by outside voices.
By highlighting their past achievements, Rashid Khan attempted to shift the focus away from the Asia Cup disappointment. He underlined that beating strong teams in global tournaments holds more weight.
Afghanistan now faces Bangladesh, who are without their regular captain Litton Das. Rashid Khan will play a key role in leading the team through this transition. The series offers a chance to regain confidence by providing opportunities ahead of the World Cup cycle picks.
The focus for Afghanistan is on intensifying consistency. They have shown that they can defeat stronger opponents, demonstrating that they lack stability. Rashid Khan’s leadership and bowling form will be vital against Bangladesh.
