A recent gathering between Afghanistan’s cricket star, Rashid Khan, and Anas Haqqani, a senior member of the Taliban, has ignited strong reactions on social media. Many Afghan women are calling on Rashid Khan to clarify his stance, while some supporters view the meeting as a symbol of unity and brotherhood.
According to Tarz Press, a video has been circulating on social media since yesterday, showing Rashid Khan and several other cricket players in a private meeting with Anas Haqqani. In the video, Rashid Khan is seated to the right of Haqqani, while an elderly poet recites romantic verses. Rashid and Haqqani listen attentively, nodding in approval.
The video has sparked controversy, particularly because it comes just days after the Taliban’s enactment of the "Propagating Virtue and Preventing Vice" law, which imposes severe restrictions on women. Social media activists and some Afghan women told Tarz Press that they did not expect Rashid Khan to engage in a friendly meeting with a group that openly oppresses Afghan women.
Fatima, in an audio message to Tarz Press, said: "Rashid needs to explain this and clarify whether he was unaware of the recent restrictions imposed by the Taliban." She added, "Rashid Khan should tell us whether he stands with the Taliban or will fulfill his responsibility as a human being by supporting his oppressed Afghan sisters."
Hakima, a women’s rights activist, also expressed her disappointment to Tarz Press, stating, "I never expected this from Rashid. He is a cricket star beloved by all Afghans, men and women alike. This friendly meeting shows that Rashid Khan hasn’t considered the reality that he belongs to a country where women live under the brutal oppression of the Taliban."
Ali, a social media user, echoed these sentiments on his X account, writing, "Just a day after the Taliban enacted the 'Propagating Virtue' law, which brings severe restrictions for women and all Afghans, Rashid Khan and some cricket team members sit happily alongside Anas Haqqani, engaged in poetry."
On the other hand, some have praised the meeting. Amanullah Hotaki, a political analyst, wrote, "Half a century of global wars imposed division and discord upon us, but now it seems we are returning to our roots. This shared image of Anas Haqqani and the cricket players could symbolize love, brotherhood, and unity." Khalid Shah Haqmal added, "Anas Haqqani with national cricket players—yes, we are united. No one can dream of dividing us. May God gather all Afghans together and keep us joyful."
Attempts were made to reach Rashid Khan for his response to the backlash, but as of this report’s publication, there has been no response from his known contacts.
