(AP Photo)
Jonathan Trott, Afghanistan’s coach, expressed hope that their groundbreaking T20 World Cup journey, culminating in a heavy semi-final loss on Wednesday, has ignited a passion for cricket among young children in the war-torn nation.
South Africa breezed into the final after a commanding nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan, who managed just 56 runs before being all out in 11.5 overs at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad.
Trott acknowledged that his team faced difficulties coping with the intense pressure of their first World Cup semi-final but emphasized his pride in their efforts nonetheless.
“A lot to process really emotionally, physically, so all new territory for the guys and it all plays its part,” said Trott, a former England batsman who was born in South Africa, admitting his side had been “outplayed”.
“I’m sure the guys hopefully learn from this experience,” he said.
“(Learn) what it takes to play international cricket and play against a bowling side like South Africa on a pitch that’s perhaps not conducive to high-scoring.
“We’ve found ways of winning games, we just couldn’t find a way today,” he said, adding that despite surpassing all expectations by reaching the last four, his side were left crestfallen.
“Obviously it hurts at the moment,” said Trott.
“We arrived to the ground in high spirits ready to take on a strong South African side and make sure we gave a good account of ourselves.
“I feel like we haven’t done that today so that’s the most disappointing thing.
“I’m very proud of the guys. This one performance doesn’t necessarily define the tournament.”
Trott described Afghanistan’s journey in the World Cup, marked by victories over formidable teams like New Zealand, Australia, and Bangladesh, as an exhilarating experience.
Their achievements brought rare moments of joy and unity in a country scarred by decades of conflict and facing significant economic, humanitarian, and political challenges.
“I hope that we’ve inspired young kids to pick up a bat and a ball and play cricket, and want to play for their nation and hopefully that everybody’s proud of the side,” said Trott.
