In a historic feat for Afghanistan cricket, ace spinner Rashid Khan became the highest wicket-taker in T20 Internationals on Monday, helping his team secure a 38-run victory over the United Arab Emirates. The 26-year-old claimed figures of 3/21 to reach 165 career wickets, surpassing New Zealand's Tim Southee in the process.
The milestone performance came during a tri-series match where Afghanistan had set a competitive total. After being put in to bat, the team posted 188 for four, thanks to a crucial partnership between Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal. Zadran scored a quick-fire 63 off 40 balls, while Atal contributed his maiden T20I fifty with 54 runs from 40 deliveries.
In their chase of 189, the UAE began strongly, with captain Muhammad Waseem providing an aggressive start. His half-century of 67 runs from just 37 balls placed the team in a promising position at 90 for two. However, the dismissal of the captain triggered a significant collapse, with Rashid Khan proving to be the game-changer.
Rashid's record-breaking performance derailed the UAE innings. He took three wickets in quick succession, dismissing Ethan D'Souza, Asif Khan, and Dhruv Parashar. His three-wicket haul not only disrupted the chase but also elevated his career tally to 165 wickets in just his 98th T20I, overtaking Southee's previous record of 164 wickets in 126 matches.
The victory, with the UAE finishing at 150 for eight, was a testament to Rashid Khan's impact on the game. His achievement cements his status as one of the most prolific bowlers in the shortest format of the game, and his role as captain was pivotal in leading his team to a decisive victory.