The Afghanistan National Cricket Team returned home today to a heroes’ welcome organized by Etisalat Afghanistan.
Thousands of adoring fans gathered at Kabul International Airport to show their appreciation for the team’s respectable performance in the T20 World Cup 2010 held in the West Indies.
The National Cricket team was greeted at the airport by Etisalat officials, members of Afghanistan Parliament and officials of Cricket Board.
Ahmed Al Hosany Chief Commercial Officer Etisalat Afghanistan, while congratulating the players said, “We at Etisalat believe you have already reached the highest level of the competition. “This performance by our Cricket Team has already proven to the world, what lies ahead. With your heads held high, the international cricketing world has seen the one of the most amazing sporting stories of all times.” He added
While commenting further, he said, “This team and what it has accomplished has paved the way for many more young Afghans and generations to come, to aspire to become great athletes and role models. We are proud to be associated with our national heroes and Afghanistan Cricket Board as Etisalat Afghanistan is committed to being a major supporter of promoting sports and healthy activities throughout the country, as a path to lasting peace and national pride.”
A large number of cricket fans also lined up along the streets, some carrying flags and balloons, to get a glimpse of the players in the team bus transporting them to a local hotel for more festivities.
The National Team was in high spirits as they waved back to their admiring supporters.
The Captain of Afghanistan Cricket Team and other officials briefed the media about their experience of participation in the World Cup. The team has earned an ODI Status for three years. A highly accomplished bowling and fielding display led by Nawroz Mangal speaks volumes of the talent at display and now with the support of Etisalat, international community and opportunity to play more matches with established cricket teams will certainly turn this spirited team into a formidable outlet, a force to be reckoned with in future.
The Captain of Afghanistan Cricket Team and officials of Afghanistan Cricket Board and other high level dignitaries also attended a dinner hosted by Etisalat Afghanistan at a local hotel.
